Mauricio Claver-Carone, the United States Special Envoy for Latin America, has declared that Cuba's current system is on the brink of an inevitable transformation. As a Cuban-American born in Miami, Claver-Carone emphasized that the Trump administration is prepared to employ "very creative" strategies to encourage changes within the island nation.
"The Cuban government is likely at its weakest point," he remarked to POLITICO, noting that while this sentiment is often expressed, the situation is genuinely precarious this time. Claver-Carone highlighted the overwhelming demand for change from the Cuban populace, suggesting that even those in power recognize the unavoidable shift towards democracy.
Referring to Cuba's current state, he stated, "The Cuban model is clearly obsolete. There isn't a single country in the region saying, 'I want to be like Cuba.'" He further asserted, "It's an intriguing period for Cuba, where the transition is not only inevitable but, quite frankly, likely imminent."
Having played a pivotal role in crafting hardline policies against regional dictatorships during Trump's initial term, Claver-Carone pointed out that the primary question is not when Cuba will transition, but how. He commented on the role the Trump administration could play in this change, suggesting, "We can be very creative," and noting the process is "brimming with opportunities and creativity."
In December, Donald Trump announced Mauricio Claver-Carone's appointment as the Special Envoy for the State Department to Latin America, highlighting his critical role in addressing migration issues and drug trafficking in the region. Claver-Carone previously served as the Principal Director for Western Hemisphere Affairs at the National Security Council during Trump's first administration.
Cuban journalist Daniel Benítez remembers him as the architect of strategies aimed at severing the Cuban dictatorship's access to international funds, targeting oil tankers defying embargoes, and reinforcing economic sanctions against Havana. "His appointment is unwelcome news for the regimes in Havana, Caracas, and Managua," Benítez stated on his YouTube channel.
In August 2020, Cuban state media labeled Claver-Carone a "filibuster" and "enemy of America," terms reflecting the regime's apprehension about the potential intensification of U.S. policies under his leadership, a shift that indeed transpired.
Key Insights into U.S. Policy Toward Cuba
What role does Mauricio Claver-Carone play in U.S. policy towards Latin America?
Mauricio Claver-Carone is the U.S. Special Envoy for Latin America, appointed to address issues such as migration and drug trafficking. He is known for his hardline stance against dictatorial regimes in the region.
Why is the Cuban government considered to be at a weak point?
According to Claver-Carone, the Cuban government is at its weakest due to overwhelming public demand for change and the recognition that a shift towards democracy is unavoidable.
How does the Cuban regime view Claver-Carone?
The Cuban regime has labeled Claver-Carone as a "filibuster" and "enemy of America," reflecting their concern over the potential strengthening of U.S. policies against them.