On Thursday, Cuban-American congresswoman Maria Elvira Salazar publicly expressed her support for Secretary of State Marco Rubio amid reports of discreet discussions with individuals close to Raúl Castro, aimed at exploring a potential political shift in Cuba.
During an event in South Florida commemorating the 30th anniversary of the downing of the Brothers to the Rescue planes, Salazar underscored Rubio's role at this pivotal moment.
"Marco Rubio is not going to negotiate anything. He will discuss the exit strategy for the Cuban leaders and outline the different phases of this transition," she asserted.
Salazar emphasized that any alleged contacts between Rubio and those close to Raúl Castro cannot be publicly confirmed.
"What remains to be seen is the actions of the Castro regime… And what we do know is that President Donald Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio will do the right thing, which is to free Cubans from oppression," she stated.
Her comments were seen as a message reinforcing the current policy toward Havana and a show of support for Rubio amid criticisms from exile sectors following reports by Axios and the Miami Herald, which claimed that the Secretary of State is in talks with Raúl Castro's grandson.
Calls for Raúl Castro's Prosecution
At the same event, Congressman Mario Díaz-Balart refrained from confirming or denying the supposed exchanges between Rubio and Raúl Guillermo Rodríguez Castro, known as "El Cangrejo."
"No, I am not going to confirm or deny that. It is up to the administration to determine what they want to say," he replied.
Díaz-Balart reiterated the call for the Department of Justice to formally accuse Raúl Castro for his alleged responsibility in the shooting down of the planes on February 24, 1996.
In agreement, Congressman Carlos A. Giménez asserted that they are "demanding the indictment of dictator Raúl Castro," framing it as a fight for freedom and justice.
Rubio, Trump, and Cuba's Path Forward
The reports about possible conversations between Rubio and Rodríguez Castro have sparked a debate within the Cuban exile community regarding the acceptable limits for a potential political transition.
According to Axios, Rubio's contacts do not involve Miguel Díaz-Canel but rather those whom Washington considers the real power in Havana. The Cuban regime has denied any formal negotiations and labeled the press reports as "speculation."
Marco Rubio operates under the leadership of President Donald Trump, who stated that his administration is communicating "with people at the highest levels in Cuba." They will have the final say on any U.S. agreement for political transition on the island.
Key Questions on Cuba's Political Transition
What role does Marco Rubio play in the proposed transition in Cuba?
Marco Rubio is involved in discussions regarding the potential phases of political transition in Cuba. He is not negotiating with the current Cuban leaders but is focused on how the transition could proceed.
Why is Raúl Castro being called to face prosecution?
Raúl Castro is being called to face prosecution due to his alleged involvement in the downing of Brothers to the Rescue planes on February 24, 1996. U.S. lawmakers are demanding accountability for this incident.