Amid escalating diplomatic tensions between the United States and Cuba, Mike Hammer, the Chargé d'Affaires at the U.S. consulate in Havana, continues to tour various regions of the island and interact with a wide range of Cuban society. Undeterred by the regime's attacks and accusations, the diplomat recently made his way to Güines, where he engaged with locals and visited the award-winning Santa Barbara Chapel.
"I'm still exploring the country, and this time I stopped by Güines, visited the first Santa Barbara Chapel in Cuba, and chatted with a few everyday Güines residents," Hammer shared in a Facebook post. On Friday, Cuba's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MINREX) summoned Hammer and delivered a Verbal Note of protest, accusing him of "encouraging Cuban citizens to commit serious crimes" and "acting against the constitutional order."
The meeting was led by Alejandro García del Toro, MINREX's Director of Bilateral Affairs, who labeled Hammer's actions as "provocative and disrespectful." Cuban authorities claim that Hammer is instigating demonstrations in favor of a "hostile foreign power" and violating the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations. They even accused him of "manipulating" the image of José Martí following his symbolic gestures, such as visiting the National Hero's grave in Santiago de Cuba.
In spite of these allegations, Hammer has not halted his activities on the island and has set up an email for Cubans to request a visit from him. The seasoned diplomat has reaffirmed his commitment to "listening directly to the Cuban people" and "strengthening the ties between our nations from the ground up."
U.S. Support and Cuban Criticism
For weeks, Cuban state media have intensified their criticism of Hammer, accusing him of spearheading a "political influence" strategy and distorting the reality of the country. This backlash heightened after Hammer held a press conference in Miami, where he declared that "the revolution has failed."
In response to MINREX's protest note, the U.S. government expressed its unwavering support for its representative in Havana.
Understanding the Diplomatic Tensions Between the U.S. and Cuba
What is Mike Hammer's role in Cuba?
Mike Hammer is the Chargé d'Affaires at the U.S. consulate in Havana, actively engaging with various sectors of Cuban society despite the regime's criticism.
Why did the Cuban government protest against Mike Hammer?
The Cuban government accused Hammer of inciting citizens to commit serious crimes and acting against the constitutional order, labeling his actions as provocative.
How has the U.S. responded to Cuba's accusations against Hammer?
The U.S. government has shown full support for Hammer, standing by him amid the Cuban regime's allegations.