Secretary of State Marco Rubio addressed the Cuban people directly on Wednesday, marking Cuban Independence Day with a Spanish-language video message that sharply criticized the island's communist leadership. Rubio attributed Cuba's ongoing economic and social crises to what he described as a kleptocratic regime, specifically targeting the Cuban military business conglomerate GAESA.
Rubio's Message to Cuba
In his speech, Rubio emphasized the disparity between Cuba's ruling elites and the struggling population. "The real reason you don't have electricity, fuel, or food is because those who control your country have plundered billions of dollars, but nothing has been used to help the people," he said. Rubio contrasted the wealth controlled by GAESA, founded by Raúl Castro, with the destitution faced by ordinary Cubans, arguing that the so-called revolutionary government has failed its citizens.
"Cuba is not controlled by any 'revolution.' Cuba is controlled by GAESA," Rubio stated. "The only role played by the so-called 'government' is to demand that you continue making 'sacrifices' and repressing anyone who dares to complain."
Trump Administration's Approach
The Trump administration, under Rubio's guidance, has intensified its pressure campaign against Cuba, including new sanctions and a $100 million aid package for the Cuban people. However, Rubio insisted that aid must be distributed through trusted charitable groups, not the Cuban government. "President Trump is offering a new relationship between the U.S. and Cuba. But it must be directly with you, the Cuban people, not with GAESA," he said.
Meanwhile, Cuba's government continues to blame its troubles on the U.S. embargo and recent sanctions, while accusing the U.S. of violating international law. The indictment of Raúl Castro, announced later Wednesday, underscores the Trump administration's hardline stance against Havana.
As Cuba faces unprecedented economic decay and shortages of basic necessities, the U.S. remains focused on fostering change through diplomatic pressure and targeted aid, bypassing the Cuban government to directly support its citizens.