On the fifth anniversary of the large anti-government demonstrations in Cuba, Washington called on the island’s socialist government to implement fundamental reforms. This must happen “before it is too late,” said US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, according to a statement. According to him, a new relationship between the United States and Cuba is possible if Havana is willing to make political and economic reforms for the prosperity of Cubans.
US President Donald Trump has threatened to “take over” the country with almost ten million inhabitants. Since January, the Republican has increased the pressure on the island significantly with sanctions and an oil embargo. “President Trump and I want a better future for Cuba and its long-suffering people,” Rubio continued.
Strained relationships
On July 11, 2021, mass protests broke out in Cuba. According to Rubio, thousands of people took to the streets to demand change after decades of oppression and mismanagement. The communist government responded with brutality against the demonstrators – thousands of people were arrested, said Rubio. Hundreds of them are still in custody.
Relations between the two countries have been fraught with conflict since the victory of the 1959 revolution led by the icon of the Latin American left, Fidel Castro (1926-2016). More than 60 years ago, Washington imposed a trade embargo on Cuba that is still in effect. Havana blames Washington for the severe economic crisis. (sda/dpa)