The U.S. State Department has introduced a new policy mandating that accredited Cuban diplomats in the country must give prior notice before engaging in any visits or meetings with state and local authorities, educational institutions, or research centers, including national labs and agricultural facilities. This policy, signed on April 18 by Clifton C. Seagroves, the Acting Director of the Office of Foreign Missions at the State Department, categorizes these activities as a "benefit" under the Foreign Missions Act, thereby allowing for the imposition of restrictions on their conduct.
According to the official document released this Monday in the Federal Register, members of the Cuban bilateral mission in the United States — including temporary representatives — are required to inform the Office of Foreign Missions in advance about any interactions with state, local, or municipal governments in the U.S. or its territories; visits to educational institutions; and visits to research centers, national laboratories, or agricultural facilities.
The regulation leaves room for the possibility of additional or modified conditions, at the discretion of the director or deputy director of the Office of Foreign Missions. This measure, supported by the authority granted to the Secretary of State under the Foreign Missions Act, is deemed "reasonably necessary" by the U.S. government to fulfill the objectives of the legislation. However, it has not been publicly clarified whether this is in response to a specific incident or a broader shift in policy towards Cuban diplomacy.
On Tuesday, the Cuban regime declared that the United States is attempting to overthrow it by force, with an offensive that, according to Deputy Foreign Minister Carlos Fernández de Cossío, is just one step away from becoming a direct military aggression. The regime has also accused Secretary of State Marco Rubio of trying to harm the island through the new measures implemented by the Trump administration.
Understanding the New U.S. Policy on Cuban Diplomats
What are the new requirements for Cuban diplomats in the U.S.?
Cuban diplomats must notify the U.S. Office of Foreign Missions before any visits or meetings with state and local authorities, educational institutions, or research centers.
Why has the U.S. implemented this policy?
The U.S. considers the policy "reasonably necessary" to meet the objectives of the Foreign Missions Act, though specific reasons or incidents prompting the change have not been publicly detailed.
How has the Cuban government reacted to this policy?
The Cuban government has accused the U.S. of attempting a forceful overthrow and criticized Secretary of State Marco Rubio for the new measures.