Rubio Urges Cubans To Work With CIA As Trump Eyes Cuba
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has publicly urged Cubans seeking political change to cooperate with the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), as President Donald Trump renewed warnings that Washington could turn its attention to Cuba after its military operations involving Iran.
The statements, made on Friday, October 23, signal increasing American pressure on Cuba’s communist government. While Rubio encouraged cooperation with US intelligence, Trump raised the possibility of American warships approaching the island, although he announced no specific military operation or timetable.
Rubio Calls For Cooperation With CIA
Rubio issued his appeal through a social media post, telling Cubans seeking political change that the moment had arrived to act.
He accused Cuba’s leadership of corruption, failing to fulfil promises and maintaining privileges for a small group while ordinary citizens faced hardship. Rubio encouraged those dissatisfied with the government to establish discreet cooperation with the CIA.
The intelligence agency subsequently published a Spanish-language video explaining how individuals could contact it securely. Rubio did not disclose whether Washington was planning a specific intelligence operation or what cooperation with the agency would involve.
Trump Raises Possibility Of Military Action
Speaking at a political rally in Florida, Trump suggested that American warships returning from operations involving Iran could make a stop near Cuba.
He also indicated that Rubio could be sent to help negotiate an agreement with the Cuban leadership. The President did not clarify whether his comments represented a formal military plan or diplomatic proposal.
The remarks come as Washington continues to increase economic and political pressure on Havana. The Trump administration has previously identified political change in Cuba as an objective of its policy towards the island.
Cuba Rejects American Pressure
Cuban Deputy Foreign Minister Carlos Fernández de Cossío mocked the CIA’s public recruitment appeal, portraying it as a sign of desperation within the American intelligence agency.
Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez also criticised Trump’s remarks about approaching Cuba’s coastline, warning against attempts to intimidate the country.
Cuba is already facing serious economic difficulties, including electricity shortages and fuel disruptions. An American oil blockade imposed earlier in 2026 has added pressure to an economy already affected by infrastructure problems and longstanding sanctions.
Although Cuba has expressed willingness to engage in dialogue with Washington, the latest statements underline growing tensions between the two governments.
