Rubio urges Cubans to contact CIA as Trump renews military threats

Secretary of State Marco Rubio has publicly invited Cubans seeking political change to work discreetly with the CIA. His appeal brings U.S. intelligence recruitment into Washington's increasingly explicit pressure on Havana.

The Trump administration has repeatedly said it wants a change in Cuba's leadership, according to Euronews. President Donald Trump has described the country as "ready to fall," the outlet reported.

On October 23, Rubio offered what he called a discreet CIA partnership in a social media post. He said "now is the time" for Cubans looking to "create positive change," according to The Hill. His message criticized corruption and failed promises.

The appeal was accompanied by practical information about contacting American intelligence. CBS Top Stories reported on October 24 that the CIA had posted a video on X showing the steps needed to contact the agency. HVG described it as a Spanish-language video for people willing to supply information.

Also on October 23, Trump told a rally for candidates in South Florida that U.S. warships returning from the war with Iran could "do a little stopover" in Cuba, CBC News reported. His remarks revived the possibility of military intervention alongside Rubio's intelligence appeal.

Cuba responded on October 23 by mocking what it called U.S. "desperation," according to Arab News. The response rejected the appeal rather than signaling any opening toward cooperation with Washington.

Washington is publicly promoting both discreet cooperation with the CIA and the possibility of military pressure. The supplied coverage does not establish that Rubio's appeal has produced recruits or that Trump's remarks amount to an announced military operation.

Trump's latest comments also differ from his stated expectation a month earlier. The Hindu reported that he had predicted an agreement with Cuba and said he did not think military action would be necessary.

The pressure comes during a prolonged economic and energy crisis. According to NDTV News - World-news News, Cuba has struggled since 2020 with a shrinking economy, blackouts, food shortages and inflation.