Rubio Says Cuba, a ‘National Security Threat’ Amid Rising Tensions Between Both Countries

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Washington DC: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has said Cuba poses a ‘national security threat’ to the United States and warned that the chances of reaching a peaceful agreement with Havana are “not high,” signaling rising tensions between the two countries.

Rubio made the comments shortly after the United States charged former Cuban President Raúl Castro with murder over the 1996 downing of two civilian aircraft that killed US nationals. The move has further strained already tense relations between Washington and Havana.

Rubio said the US still prefers a diplomatic solution but stressed that President Donald Trump has the right and responsibility to protect the country from threats. However, he added that dealing with Cuba’s current leadership makes a peaceful agreement unlikely.

Cuba strongly rejected the accusations. Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez called Rubio’s statements “lies” and insisted that Cuba has never posed a threat to the United States. He accused Washington of trying to justify pressure and possible military escalation against the island.

Rubio also accused Cuba of being one of the ‘leading sponsors of terrorism’ in the region, a claim the Cuban government firmly denies. Rodríguez responded by accusing the US of spreading falsehoods and pursuing a campaign of hostility.

The situation escalated further after the US formally charged Raúl Castro. American officials have not detailed how they would bring him to the United States, but they have suggested he could appear voluntarily or through other means.

Alongside the legal action, the US has increased pressure through sanctions and arrests linked to Cuba’s economic and military networks. Rubio also announced the arrest of a Cuban-linked individual in Florida, accusing her of supporting Havana’s state-controlled conglomerate.

President Donald Trump has called Cuba a ‘failed country’ and said his administration is prepared to provide humanitarian assistance while continuing pressure on the government. The US has also offered $100 million in aid, according to Rubio.

Pic Credit: AFP