Cuba Told to Deal Directly With CIA as U.S. Ships Loom

Tensions between Washington and Havana have intensified, with U.S. officials now directing Cuban citizens to bypass their government and negotiate directly with American intelligence services.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio posted on X on Friday, addressing those who want to create positive change in Cuba. He described the current situation as defined by broken promises, corruption, and a small elite living in privilege. Rubio urged readers to seize the moment by forming a discrete partnership with the Central Intelligence Agency.

The CIA quickly reposted the message, providing a similar appeal in Spanish. The agency included a video that outlined specific steps for individuals to contact the organization.

This diplomatic push coincides with growing economic hardship on the island. Cuba is under a strict U.S. embargo and sanctions designed to pressure its communist leadership. Prices for basic goods have risen sharply, and access to medical care has declined. Reports indicate that citizens are waiting hours in lines for bread and medical appointments.

Washington added new economic pressure last week by sanctioning Cuba's state-run bank. The U.S. government cited the institution's ties to Iran as the reason for the new measures.

President Donald Trump reinforced the hardline stance at a campaign rally in South Florida on Friday. He referenced U.S. Navy warships currently deployed near the Strait of Hormuz and predicted they would pass by Cuba. Trump stated that one ship would stop about 50 yards off the coast. He said the crew would raise their hands in a gesture, after which Rubio would arrive to finalize a deal.

Cuba's government rejected the new approach. Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez Parrilla responded on X on Friday, stating that the island rejects any threats born from U.S. ambitions. He described the coastline as rugged and inhospitable to those arriving with hostile intentions and a desire for domination.