The Cuban Ministry of Foreign Affairs has released a statement of protest against Michael Hammer, the head of the United States mission to Cuba, accusing him of “unfriendly and meddling behaviour” since his arrival on the island in late 2024. The statement asserts that Hammer’s actions, such as inciting criminal acts, attacking the constitutional order, or encouraging actions against authorities, amount to provocative and irresponsible conduct.
The Foreign Ministry emphasizes that Hammer’s diplomatic immunity cannot be used as a shield for actions that undermine Cuba’s sovereignty and internal order. The message was delivered by Alejandro Garcia del Toro, the director of bilateral affairs with the US. This incident highlights the ongoing strained relationship between Cuba and the US, particularly since the beginning of President Donald Trump’s second term.
Diplomatic ties between the US and Cuba have been tense for decades, dating back to the Cold War when the US imposed trade restrictions and supported efforts to topple the Communist government that emerged after the 1959 Cuban Revolution. Attempts to ease tensions have been made during the administrations of Democratic presidents, but these efforts have been rolled back, notably with Trump reversing previous measures and maintaining a hardline stance towards Cuba.
The Cuban Foreign Ministry has also criticized Hammer for visiting the tomb of Jose Marti, a 19th-century Cuban national hero, where he cited a phrase from Marti that critics interpret as an endorsement of dissent. This move is viewed by the Cuban government as public and insulting manipulation.
Indications have emerged that Trump plans to re-impose “maximum pressure” on Cuba through tightening the restrictions on the Cuban government. Actions such as yanking visas from those working with Cuba’s medical system, condemning the re-arrest of dissidents, and labeling Cuba a “not fully cooperating country” under the Arms Export Control Act exemplify this policy. The US Department of State, under the direction of Marco Rubio, a staunch supporter of continuing the embargo against Cuba, has accused Cuba of harboring fugitives and not cooperating fully with US counter-terrorism efforts. Despite Cuba’s protest and the reprimand of Hammer, the State Department remains unfazed and continues to support dissidents in their stand against what they call Cuba’s “malign influence”.
Source: https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2025/5/31/unfriendly-and-meddling-cuba-reprimands-us-diplomat-amid-rising-tensions?traffic_source=rss
