Rubio urges Cubans to cooperate secretly with the CIA

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has called on Cubans who want change in their country to enter a “confidential partnership” with the CIA, the foreign intelligence agency of the United States. He said in a social media post that now is the time for those seeking “positive change” in Cuba to act.

Rubio wrote about disappointment over unfulfilled promises, corruption and the privileged position of a narrow circle of people. He urged Cubans to use this moment to achieve the change they want through confidential cooperation with the CIA.

Pressure on Havana

President Donald Trump’s administration has repeatedly stated that its goal is a change of leadership in Havana. Trump himself has claimed the country is “ready to collapse”.

In January, Trump increased pressure on the island nation by announcing an oil blockade. This followed a US military operation that detained Venezuela’s former leader, Nicolás Maduro. In a post on Truth Social at the time, Trump wrote that Cuba had for many years lived off huge volumes of oil and money from Venezuela. He said no more oil or money would go to Cuba, and urged Havana to make a deal before it was too late.

Speaking to reporters in September, Trump expressed confidence that he could reach an agreement with Cuba. He said Cuba and the US would ultimately strike a deal and that he did not think military force would be needed.

CIA guidance

The CIA has published recommendations for Cubans who wish to cooperate with the agency. It advises against using devices or internet connections tied to their identity or workplace, and recommends deleting all software and apps from the device used to make contact.

Those seeking to get in touch are asked by the CIA to state their main location, their job title, and the type or level of access to information of interest to the agency.