Rubio Blames Communist Leadership for Cubans' Unimaginable Difficulties
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio marked Cuba's Independence Day today with a video message in Spanish addressed to the island's residents, blaming the country's communist leadership for their 'unimaginable difficulties.'
TL;DR
- Marco Rubio blamed Cuba's communist leadership for the island's hardships, including lack of electricity, fuel, and food.
- He accused the leadership of stealing billions of dollars while the people suffer.
- The US Department of Justice plans to indict Raul Castro for allegedly ordering the downing of two rescue planes in 1996.
- Rubio contrasted the wealth of the military-run GAESA conglomerate with the poverty of ordinary Cubans.
- He stated that Cubans excel in all industries globally except Cuba.
- The Cuban government blames the US embargo, new sanctions, and the loss of Venezuelan oil for their problems.
- Rubio stated that President Trump offers a new relationship with Cuba directly with the people, not GAESA.
- The US offered $100 million in food and medicine aid, to be distributed by the Catholic Church or other NGOs.
- Cuban government has reportedly found funds to purchase combat drones from Russia and China and hosts military officials from Iran, Russia, and China.
- US officials have met with Cuban leaders, including Raulito Castro, conveying messages to release political prisoners, hold free elections, and return property to US citizens and companies.