U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has pointed fingers at Cuba, Nicaragua, and Venezuela for their substantial role in the ongoing migration crisis within the hemisphere, labeling their governments as "enemies of humanity." During a press briefing in San José, Costa Rica, Rubio emphasized how these regimes have driven a mass exodus of citizens due to their ineffective political and economic systems.
"The regimes in Nicaragua, Venezuela, and Cuba are enemies of humanity, and they have precipitated this migration crisis. Without these three regimes, there wouldn't be a migration crisis in the hemisphere," Rubio asserted, standing alongside Costa Rican President Rodrigo Chaves.
Sharp Criticism of Regional Governments
Rubio particularly criticized Daniel Ortega's administration in Nicaragua, describing it as a "family dynasty" where Ortega governs with his wife, Rosario Murillo, now dubbed "co-president" following constitutional amendments. "They have attempted to eradicate the Catholic Church and all religious entities, as well as any institution posing a threat to their power. Consequently, thousands of Nicaraguans have fled the country," Rubio stated.
According to Rubio, Nicaragua's migration situation is akin to that of Cuba and Venezuela, where "people leave their countries for the same reasons: repression, poverty, and lack of opportunities."
U.S.-Costa Rica Cooperation
Rubio's visit to Costa Rica is part of a broader tour across Central America, focusing on migration, security, and trade discussions with regional leaders. The EFE agency reported that in his meeting with President Chaves, they discussed bilateral cooperation on cybersecurity and combating drug trafficking. The United States views Costa Rica as a key ally in the region, contrasting with other governments that Rubio claims have "undermined stability." He highlighted that "there are more Americans living in Costa Rica than Costa Ricans in the United States, showcasing the success of the Central American country compared to others."
China's Growing Influence in Central America
A significant topic during the discussions was the increasing influence of China in the region. Last week, the U.S. Special Envoy for Latin America, Mauricio Claver-Carone, noted that President Chaves understands the "Chinese threat," referencing Costa Rica's decision to limit Chinese companies' involvement in the 5G technology rollout for national security reasons.
Following stops in Panama and El Salvador, Rubio plans to continue his regional tour with visits to Guatemala and the Dominican Republic, aiming to strengthen alliances in security and migration against what Washington considers "authoritarian regimes" in the hemisphere.
Miguel Díaz-Canel's Response
In response, Cuban leader Miguel Díaz-Canel vehemently rejected Rubio's statements, accusing the United States of being the true cause of the migration crisis in Cuba. "Once again, shamelessness grips the cynical U.S. politicians. The migration exodus in #Cuba is directly proportional to the tightening of the #blockade, depriving our people of essential goods. Humanity is endangered by your neofascism," Díaz-Canel declared on his X account (formerly Twitter).
In a subsequent message, the Cuban president questioned Rubio's "enemies of humanity" accusation: "Are we enemies of humanity, those who resist blockades without abandoning solidarity with other peoples, or those who enforce the #Blockade flouting international laws? The true enemy of humanity is the empire with its expansionist appetite and futile desire to rule the world."
Insights on the Migration Crisis in the Hemisphere
What countries does Marco Rubio blame for the migration crisis?
Marco Rubio blames Cuba, Nicaragua, and Venezuela for the migration crisis in the hemisphere, labeling their governments as "enemies of humanity."
How does Rubio describe Daniel Ortega's government?
Rubio describes Daniel Ortega's government as a "family dynasty" where Ortega governs alongside his wife, Rosario Murillo, who is now referred to as "co-president."
What topics did Rubio discuss with Costa Rican officials?
Rubio discussed migration, security, trade, cybersecurity cooperation, and combating drug trafficking with Costa Rican officials.
What was Miguel Díaz-Canel's reaction to Rubio's statements?
Miguel Díaz-Canel rejected Rubio's statements, accusing the United States of being the real cause of the migration crisis in Cuba and labeling U.S. policies as neofascist.