On Wednesday, Cuban-American Congressman Carlos Giménez addressed a contentious issue within the Cuban exile community: the potential suspension of flights and remittances between the United States and Cuba. In an exclusive interview with journalist Mario J. Pentón, the Republican lawmaker confirmed that he has sent a letter to the Trump Administration requesting a complete halt to air travel operations with Cuba as long as the communist regime remains in power.
"Yes, I've sent a letter to the Trump Administration asking them to stop all flights between the United States and Cuba, and also to halt all remittances sent from the U.S. to Cuba," stated Giménez. The congressman argues that these resources, rather than aiding the Cuban people, end up supporting the island's government. "They steal a portion of that money, which never reaches the pockets of the Cubans. This has to stop because, look, that regime is already on the brink. We can't give it any more oxygen," he remarked.
Giménez believes that the end of the communist regime is imminent and that Cuban-Americans have a duty not to contribute to its existence, either directly or indirectly. "The regime needs to go. We need changes in Cuba to establish democracy and freedom. Once that happens, things in Cuba will improve," he added.
Targeting Regime Supporters in the U.S.
Beyond this statement, the congressman used the interview as an opportunity to reiterate his demand to deport former regime officials identified in the United States who have been involved in repressive acts. Giménez emphasizes that there is a list of more than 100 regime enforcers who have infiltrated the U.S., urging a review of how they entered the country and whether they committed immigration fraud. "If they have fake documents or made false statements, they should be removed from the country," he asserted firmly.
Furthermore, he suggested imposing tariffs on governments that hire Cuban doctors through the regime without directly paying them, denouncing this practice as a form of exploitation.
Strengthening Economic Sanctions
Carlos Giménez has renewed his call to sever economic and logistical ties with Havana. He reinforces his stance as one of the most critical congressmen of the Cuban regime and among the most active in advocating for sanctions from Washington. "I am Cuban. I was born in Cuba. My roots are Cuban. So I am not an enemy of Cuba, but I am certainly an enemy of the regime. I will do everything in my power to bring that government to an end," he emphasized.
Frequently Asked Questions about U.S.-Cuba Relations
Why does Carlos Giménez want to stop flights to Cuba?
Carlos Giménez believes that suspending flights will cut off resources that currently support the Cuban government, which he views as oppressive. He argues that these resources do not benefit the Cuban people but rather sustain the regime.
What is Giménez's stance on remittances to Cuba?
Giménez advocates for stopping remittances to Cuba, claiming that a significant portion of the money is intercepted by the regime and does not reach the intended recipients.
How does Giménez propose addressing Cuban regime supporters in the U.S.?
He seeks the deportation of former regime officials in the U.S. who participated in oppressive acts, arguing for a thorough review of their immigration status and potential fraud.