Rubio Signals Shift in US-Cuba Approach with Appeal to Cuban People

(MENAFN) US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Wednesday delivered a direct message to the people of Cuba, presenting what he described as a “new relationship” from the administration of US President Donald Trump while sharply criticizing Cuba’s leadership for the country’s ongoing economic and social difficulties.

In a video message released in Spanish, Rubio said Washington’s proposed approach was intended to engage directly with Cuban citizens rather than with GAESA, the military-linked business conglomerate established during the era of former Cuban leader Raul Castro.

“President (Donald) Trump is offering a new relationship between the US and Cuba. But it must be directly with you, the Cuban people, not with GAESA,” Rubio said.

According to reports, Rubio specifically targeted Grupo de Administracion Empresarial S.A. (GAESA), describing the organization as a powerful structure operating beyond public accountability and benefiting a narrow ruling circle.

"Today, Cuba is not controlled by any 'revolution.' Cuba is controlled by GAESA -- a 'state within a state' that is accountable to no one and hoards the profits from its businesses for the benefit of a small elite," he said.

The address marked the first occasion Rubio has spoken directly to the Cuban population since becoming secretary of state. Reports noted that Rubio, whose parents immigrated from Cuba, used the message to frame the administration’s policy as one centered on the Cuban people rather than state-controlled institutions.

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