Cuban Regime Warns U.S. Diplomat Mike Hammer: "Do Not Mistake Patience for Weakness"

The Cuban government has ramped up its verbal and diplomatic offensive against Mike Hammer, the U.S. Chargé d'Affaires in Havana, accusing him of deceit, fostering internal unrest, and breaching the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations. Johana Tablada de la Torre, a representative from the Cuban Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MINREX), issued a stern warning: "No one should mistake Cuba's patience in the face of such actions for weakness."

These remarks were initially part of a promotional video by the state-run outlet Prensa Latina but were later removed from the final cut. The omission suggests the statements may have gone beyond the usual diplomatic tone, potentially causing misunderstandings or escalating bilateral tensions. In the deleted segment, Tablada described Hammer's actions as "blatant interference," accusing him of meeting with individuals allegedly funded by the U.S. to undermine Cuba's constitutional order, and labeled the U.S. embassy's role as that of an "executioner."

Tablada, the Deputy Director General of the U.S. Directorate at MINREX, also stated that "the Cuban government has regulations" governing whom foreign diplomats may meet, emphasizing that Cuba will not relent "one iota on the revolution, socialism, and our sovereignty."

Mounting Tensions Amidst Open Diplomacy Efforts

These comments are part of a growing rhetoric in recent weeks, responding to Hammer's "open diplomacy" efforts, which have included meetings with activists, dissidents, and members of Cuba's independent civil society. Tablada accused Hammer of pursuing an "agenda of aggression and interference" and held him accountable for actions allegedly contrary to Cuba's constitutional framework. She argued that the diplomat cannot "meet with whoever he wants" and must adhere to the island's "regulations."

In a recent video, Tablada also claimed that Hammer has knowingly lied about the country's situation, asserting that his statements in Miami—where he declared that "the revolution has failed" and that Cubans blame the regime for the crisis—are part of a destabilization strategy.

The U.S. Department of State has defended Hammer, asserting that his work is legitimate and consistent with international law. An official spokesperson stated, "Supporting the Cuban people is not a crime." Washington has reiterated its commitment to human rights and Cuban civil society.

U.S. Diplomat Faces Cuban Regime's Escalating Pressure

Since his arrival in Havana in November 2024, Hammer has engaged actively with dissidents, activists, entrepreneurs, and ordinary citizens. These efforts have heightened the Cuban regime's concerns, leading to increased media and diplomatic attacks against the U.S. diplomat.

On May 30, 2025, MINREX summoned Hammer to deliver a Verbal Note protesting his alleged incitement of Cuban citizens to commit serious offenses and act against the constitutional order. The meeting, led by Alejandro García del Toro, Director of Bilateral Affairs at MINREX, conveyed Cuba's firm rejection of Hammer's behavior, labeling it disrespectful and intrusive.

Cuban authorities also criticized what they deemed as a "public and insulting manipulation" of José Martí's legacy by Hammer, following his visit to the National Hero's tomb in Santiago de Cuba. According to MINREX, his remarks on Martí demonstrate a profound ignorance of the Cuban hero's legacy of independence and anti-imperialism.

In response to the Cuban regime's accusations, the U.S. Department of State defended Hammer, stating that his mission in Cuba aims to support the Cuban populace and advocate for human rights. U.S. officials reaffirmed their commitment to a foreign policy that holds the Cuban regime accountable for its negative influence in the region.

Despite the criticisms and allegations, Hammer has continued with his agenda on the island, reiterating his interest in directly engaging with the Cuban people and strengthening grassroots connections between the two nations.