The news that Raúl Castro's granddaughter made five trips to New York using a diplomatic passport, with all expenses paid, has sparked outrage among Cuban-American lawmakers. They are condemning the privileges afforded to the regime's family members while millions of Cubans endure blackouts, hunger, and censorship. Congresswoman María Elvira Salazar labeled the situation as an example of the "hypocrisy of Castroism," criticizing the lavish lifestyle of Vilma Rodríguez Castro in the United States while ordinary Cubans suffer.
"Enough with the privileges for oppressors!" Salazar expressed on her X account, extending her gratitude to Martí Noticias for exposing the scandal. Congressman Mario Díaz-Balart was even more direct, calling the revelations "outrageous and unacceptable," and demanded immediate sanctions, including a travel ban to the U.S. for regime relatives.
On the same social media platform, Díaz-Balart highlighted that these beneficiaries of Cuba's repressive system enjoy immunity while Havana collaborates with U.S. adversaries such as China, Russia, Iran, Venezuela, Nicaragua, and North Korea. He also pointed out that the Cuban regime harbors American fugitives like Joanne Chesimard and William Morales.
Backlash Against Obama's "Thaw" Policy
Congressman Carlos Giménez used the incident to criticize the "thaw" policy initiated by Barack Obama's administration, arguing that it merely extended the life of a decaying tyranny. "We are advocating for an end to all travel and remittances to the prison island," he declared on his X account.
The critiques emerged following an investigation published this week by Martí Noticias, drawing from leaked official documents. These documents revealed that between 2012 and 2016, Vilma Rodríguez Castro made at least five trips to the U.S., facilitated by the Cuban regime. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Minrex) arranged for her diplomatic visas, citing "family importance" and security reasons.
Privileges Beyond Travel
Her travels included visits to art fairs, exhibitions, and other cultural events in New York, with all costs covered by U.S. institutions. While millions of Cubans face travel restrictions, the former ruler's granddaughter moved freely within the United States, enjoying preferential treatment.
Rodríguez Castro's privileges extend beyond her travels. It was previously revealed that she manages a luxury mansion in the exclusive Miramar neighborhood in Havana. Until recently, it was available for rent on Airbnb under the name Casa Vida Luxury Holidays, at a rate of $650 per night. Following reports by CiberCuba, the U.S. government added the address to its list of prohibited entities for American citizens.
In addition to her family ties, Vilma is married to artist Arles del Río, who is associated with the official cultural circuit and has received regime-backed scholarships in the U.S., such as the one from the Vermont Studio Center, along with other assignments on the island. Her personal gallery, established with state support, is located in Vedado, as previously reported by Diario de Cuba.
Experts indicate that the use of diplomatic passports by regime family members is a systematic practice to circumvent immigration restrictions, discreetly move funds, and even further economic interests outside the island. This case has reignited criticism of the permissive ties between Washington and Havana, highlighting the persistent privileges enjoyed by Cuba's elite, even beyond its borders.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cuban-American Lawmakers' Reactions
Why are Cuban-American lawmakers outraged about Vilma Rodríguez Castro's trips?
Lawmakers are outraged because Vilma Rodríguez Castro, the granddaughter of Raúl Castro, made multiple luxury trips to the U.S. using diplomatic privileges, while ordinary Cubans endure severe hardships.
What actions have lawmakers proposed in response to this situation?
Lawmakers like Mario Díaz-Balart have demanded immediate sanctions and a travel ban to the U.S. for relatives of the Cuban regime, while Carlos Giménez advocates for halting all travel and remittances to Cuba.
What previous U.S. policy is being criticized in light of this incident?
The "thaw" policy implemented by the Obama administration is being criticized, as some lawmakers believe it prolonged the Cuban regime's lifespan without achieving significant democratic reforms.