State Secretary Directs Cubans to Contact U.S. Intelligence Agency

Secretary of State Marco Rubio publicly invited Cubans seeking government change to form a direct working relationship with the Central Intelligence Agency on Friday. The move marks the latest escalation in the Trump administration's efforts to dislodge the current leadership in Havana.

Rubio posted the appeal on X, telling citizens that the moment to act is now. He cited widespread corruption and the comfortable lifestyles of a small elite as drivers for change. The post urged readers to establish a discrete partnership with the agency to achieve their goals.

The CIA quickly amplified the message by reposting the appeal in both English and Spanish. A video attached to the social media posts provided step-by-step instructions on how to contact intelligence officials.

The diplomatic push occurs while Cuba endures strict U.S. economic sanctions. Basic goods have become expensive, and medical access has narrowed. Residents have reported waiting hours in lines for bread and doctor appointments. Washington added new pressure last week by targeting Cuba's state-run bank, citing the institution's ties to Iran.

President Trump reinforced the military dimension of the strategy at a campaign rally in South Florida on Friday. He referenced U.S. Navy warships currently deployed near the Strait of Hormuz. Trump stated that the ships would travel through Cuban waters on their way back from the region.

The president described a scenario where one vessel would stop approximately 50 yards off the coast. He said the crew would raise their hands as a signal, after which he would send Rubio to finalize negotiations with the Cuban government.

Havana rejected the new approach. Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez Parrilla responded on X, stating that the island rejects threats born from U.S. ambitions. He characterized the coastline as rugged and inhospitable to those arriving with hostile intentions.