Marco Rubio has dismissed reports that the United States urged Cuba to remove its president, Miguel Díaz-Canel, describing the claims as false and based on unreliable sources.
In a late-night post on X, Rubio rejected an article published by The New York Times, labeling it “fake” and criticizing what he called reliance on “charlatans and liars claiming to be in the know.”
The report had alleged that officials in the administration of Donald Trump had privately encouraged Cuba to replace Díaz-Canel, whom they reportedly view as resistant to political and economic reform. However, it also stated that Washington had stopped short of demanding the overthrow of the country’s communist system.
Rubio did not clarify whether his denial applied to the entire report or specific elements of it, leaving ambiguity over the extent of the administration’s internal discussions regarding Cuba.
The controversy comes amid heightened tensions between Washington and Havana, as the United States increases pressure on the Cuban government during a deepening economic and energy crisis. Recent developments, including widespread blackouts and fuel shortages, have intensified scrutiny of Cuba’s leadership and governance.
Rubio, a Cuban-American and long-time critic of Havana’s political system, has consistently advocated for significant political change on the island since the 1959 revolution led by Fidel Castro. He reiterated on Tuesday that Cuba must undertake more “dramatic” reforms beyond recent measures allowing overseas Cubans to invest in local businesses.
Meanwhile, President Trump has escalated rhetoric toward Cuba, signaling openness to a potential “deal” with the island while simultaneously boasting about the United States’ leverage over the country. Analysts note that the administration’s broader foreign policy approach seen in dealings with countries such as Venezuela and Iran has focused on exerting pressure to force compliance rather than outright regime change.
Cuba, which lacks the oil wealth of Venezuela but remains politically significant in US domestic politics, continues to face mounting economic challenges exacerbated by sanctions and reduced energy supplies.
Cuban-American lawmakers, particularly within the Republican Party, have long advocated for a tougher stance on Havana, pushing for democratic reforms and increased pressure on the current leadership.
Rubio’s latest remarks highlight the ongoing information battles and diplomatic tensions shaping US-Cuba relations, as both governments navigate a period of uncertainty marked by economic strain, political pressure, and competing narratives.
