Marco Rubio Lays Out Vision For ‘New Cuba’ As Pressure Builds On Raúl Castro
Secretary of State Marco Rubio delivered a forceful message directly to the Cuban people Wednesday, accusing the communist regime of enriching itself while ordinary citizens suffer through blackouts, shortages, and repression as the Trump administration ramps up pressure on Havana.
Rubio released the Spanish-language address on Cuban Independence Day while reports intensified that the Justice Department is preparing criminal charges against former Cuban leader Raúl Castro tied to the 1996 shootdown of civilian aircraft operated by Brothers to the Rescue.
“The real reason you don’t have electricity, fuel, or food is because those who control your country have plundered billions of dollars,” Rubio said in the message directed at Cuban citizens.
Rubio specifically targeted GAESA, the powerful military-controlled business empire founded under Castro that Rubio says dominates roughly 70% of Cuba’s economy while ordinary Cubans struggle to survive.
The secretary also outlined what he described as President Trump’s vision for “a new Cuba,” promising economic opportunity and humanitarian assistance if power shifts away from the communist system currently controlling the island.
Rubio announced that the United States is offering $100 million in food and medical aid for Cuba, but insisted the assistance bypass the Cuban government entirely and instead flow through trusted religious and charitable organizations such as the Catholic Church.
“President Trump is offering a new relationship between the U.S. and Cuba,” Rubio said. “But it must be directly with you, the Cuban people, not with GAESA.”
Rubio argued that Cubans deserve the same opportunities enjoyed by Cuban immigrants and descendants thriving across the globe in business, entertainment, sports, and politics.
The speech came amid mounting reports that the Justice Department is preparing murder-related charges against Raúl Castro over the deadly 1996 attack in which Cuban fighter jets shot down two unarmed planes operated by the humanitarian group Brothers to the Rescue. Four people were killed in the incident.
Investigators have long alleged the aircraft were destroyed over international waters rather than inside Cuban airspace. Reports have also pointed to audio recordings allegedly capturing Castro discussing the operation and instructing pilots on how to carry out the attack.
The Trump administration has steadily increased pressure on Cuba through sanctions, economic restrictions, and diplomatic efforts aimed at weakening the communist regime’s hold on power.
Rubio closed his remarks by arguing that Cuba’s current leadership remains the only obstacle preventing the country from becoming more prosperous and democratic.
“In the U.S., we are ready to open a new chapter in the relationship between our people and our countries,” Rubio said. “And, currently, the only thing standing in the way of a better future are those who control your country.”