Recent reports suggesting possible discussions between Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Raúl Guillermo Rodríguez Castro, known as "El Cangrejo" and grandson of Raúl Castro, have stirred immediate backlash in Miami. Analysts and the Cuban exile community have strongly opposed any engagement involving the dictator's family.
Univisión introduced Rodríguez Castro as Raúl Castro's "favorite grandson," citing American publication Axios, which claimed he might be in talks with Rubio.
The report indicated these interactions were not formal negotiations but rather part of exchanges amid the ongoing crisis on the island.
Andy Gómez, a Cuban affairs analyst, remarked, "Raúl learned a significant lesson from his brother Fidel: trust no one," and noted that "El Cangrejo is the son of Alberto López Calleja, the general who headed GAESA, and Raúl Castro's eldest daughter."
Gómez suggested, "The only person who can choose El Cangrejo is his grandfather Raúl Castro," reinforcing the notion that any rapprochement would require the approval of Cuba's real power.
According to Axios sources, Rodríguez Castro — who also serves as his grandfather's bodyguard — is "the apple of the former leader's eye." Engaging with him might bypass institutional channels to reach younger sectors linked to business interests within the regime.
Eloy Viera, an analyst with the elTOQUE platform, argued that "the administration is seeking to engage with the real power, not bureaucratic structures that may act as intermediaries or shields."
He added that, in a transitional phase, certain players might be aiming to "preserve significant economic assets or, at the very least, ensure impunity for those who survive."
The debate also highlighted that while Washington maintains its stance that the regime must step down, Havana is reportedly trying to ensure that some Castro family members can remain in the country.
"They are safeguarding their grandfather," Gómez stated.
Analyst and commentator Miguel Cossio expressed a firm position, saying, "No one from the Castro family should be part of this change process."
Similarly, political analyst Sebastián Arcos Cazabón asserted, "The same would apply if it were Alejandro Castro or Raúl Guillermo, the son or grandson. They would not be acceptable to Cubans."
Insights on Marco Rubio's Alleged Talks with Castro's Grandson
Who is Raúl Guillermo Rodríguez Castro?
Raúl Guillermo Rodríguez Castro, also known as "El Cangrejo," is the grandson of Raúl Castro and serves as his bodyguard. He is considered a favored family member within the Castro dynasty.
What is the significance of the alleged talks between Marco Rubio and Rodríguez Castro?
The alleged discussions, though not formal negotiations, represent potential direct exchanges with the real power in Cuba, bypassing traditional bureaucratic channels, which has led to significant controversy and opposition within the Cuban exile community.
What are the implications of engaging with the Castro family?
Engaging with the Castro family could signify a shift in diplomatic strategy, potentially allowing them to maintain influence or economic control post-transition, which many in the exile community find unacceptable.