Marco Rubio Pitches 'Discrete Partnership' With CIA to Cuban Reformers

The U.S. State Department has publicly solicited direct contact from Cuban citizens seeking political change, marking a shift toward overt intelligence-led diplomacy in the island nation. Secretary of State Marco Rubio posted the invitation on X on Friday, framing the move as a response to long-standing dissatisfaction within Cuba's leadership.

In his message, Rubio cited the "disappointment of failed promises, corruption, and the privileged lives of only a few" as reasons for action. He encouraged readers to "seize this opportunity to create the change you desire through a discrete partnership with the CIA." The Central Intelligence Agency reposted the message shortly after, including a Spanish-language version and a video that outlined the specific steps for contacting the agency.

The announcement follows a period of escalating economic pressure on Havana. The U.S. government implemented additional sanctions last week targeting Cuba's state-run bank, citing the institution's ties to Iran. These measures join a long-standing embargo that officials say has contributed to soaring prices for basic goods and reduced access to medical care. Reports indicate that residents have waited hours in lines for bread and medical appointments.

President Donald Trump referenced the situation during a campaign rally in South Florida on Friday. He stated that U.S. Navy warships currently deployed near the Strait of Hormuz would pass by Cuba on their return from Iran. Trump described a scenario where one ship would stop approximately 50 yards off the coast. He added that Cuban officials would raise their hands in surrender, after which Rubio would be sent to finalize a deal.

The Cuban government responded to the U.S. rhetoric on the same day. Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez Parrilla posted on X that his country rejects "any threats stemming from U.S. ambitions toward Cuba." He characterized the island's coastline as rugged and inhospitable to those arriving with hostile intentions.

The next scheduled development is the naval transit of U.S. warships through the Caribbean as they return from the Middle East. Rubio's post remains live on X, serving as the primary public channel for the proposed direct partnership.