The Cuban opposition leader José Daniel Ferrer emphasized on Wednesday that U.S. Senator Marco Rubio is well-informed about the situation in Cuba and dedicated to supporting the Cuban people's welfare.
Following a meeting at the U.S. Department of State headquarters in Washington, the coordinator of the Patriotic Union of Cuba (UNPACU) noted that Marco Rubio is "keenly aware of the challenges in Cuba" and "deeply committed to alleviating the harsh living conditions of the Cuban people and fighting for our nation's freedom."
Ferrer stated that the discussion covered topics such as repression in Cuba, the status of political prisoners, human rights violations, and the severe humanitarian crisis affecting the Caribbean nation. He explained that they addressed the dire living conditions faced by thousands of Cubans suffering from energy shortages, food scarcity, and lack of medical supplies.
"I expressed my gratitude to the U.S. government for its offer of support following the recent meteorological disaster that impacted several provinces in the country. I requested that humanitarian aid be channeled through the Catholic Church, as many people have gone days without food, are afflicted by arbovirus diseases, and are without necessary medications," Ferrer stated.
Ferrer announced that during his time in Washington, he plans to engage in further meetings with U.S. government officials and international human rights organizations to continue condemning the Cuban regime's repression.
On Wednesday night, Ferrer was honored with the Freedom Award, a recognition granted in Washington to individuals who advocate for human rights and democracy in authoritarian contexts.
On Thursday, the Cuban regime's Foreign Minister, Bruno Rodríguez Parrilla, criticized Rubio for meeting with Ferrer, labeling the opposition figures as "criminals, abusers of women, and human rights violators."
Understanding the Political Climate Between the U.S. and Cuba
What topics were discussed in the meeting between José Daniel Ferrer and Marco Rubio?
The meeting covered issues such as repression in Cuba, the situation of political prisoners, human rights violations, and the humanitarian crisis impacting the nation.
Why did José Daniel Ferrer thank the U.S. government?
Ferrer expressed gratitude for the U.S. government's offer of support after a recent meteorological disaster in Cuba and suggested that aid be distributed through the Catholic Church.
What was the reaction of the Cuban regime to the meeting?
The Cuban regime's Foreign Minister, Bruno Rodríguez Parrilla, criticized Marco Rubio for meeting with Ferrer and labeled the opposition figures as "criminals, abusers of women, and human rights violators."