On Wednesday, over a hundred Cubans living across Europe gathered in Madrid for a meeting with Mike Hammer, the U.S. Ambassador to Cuba. The focus of this assembly was the political future of the island nation and the critical role of the diaspora in a potential transformation process.
Participants included members from civil society and exile organizations, who engaged in direct dialogue with Hammer, presenting proposals aimed at fostering changes in the Caribbean country.
This meeting took place as Washington's attention on Cuba continues to intensify.
U.S. Commitment to the Cuban People
During his remarks, Hammer conveyed a message on behalf of President Donald Trump’s administration and Secretary of State Marco Rubio. "The Trump administration, along with Secretary Marco Rubio, wants to affirm its commitment to the Cuban people," Hammer declared.
The diplomat emphasized that the future of the island should be determined by its citizens. "The future of Cuba is something for Cubans to decide, in freedom, with opportunities to live peacefully, make their own decisions, and prosper economically," he stated.
Hammer reiterated that his presence in Madrid was to listen to the diaspora. "I am here to listen to you," he emphasized, noting that Washington does not wish to impose solutions but to support the aspirations of the Cuban people.
Cuba: A Hemispheric and National Security Priority
Hammer explained that the Cuban issue is a prominent concern on the current White House agenda. He highlighted that President Trump has prioritized Latin America and the Caribbean in U.S. foreign policy, with Cuba being a central aspect of that strategy.
"Cuba holds significant importance, being only 90 miles from our shores, and it poses a national security concern," he noted.
He also reminded the audience that both President Trump and Rubio have publicly expressed their support for the Cuban people's aspirations for economic and political openness. In this vein, Hammer mentioned his efforts include engaging with European governments and other institutions to join the cause. Following his visit to Madrid, he planned to travel to Italy to continue these discussions.
Addressing Repression and Lack of Freedoms
Hammer also touched upon the internal situation within the island, emphasizing his role in informing the world about the realities faced by Cubans. "There is daily and absolute repression; there is no freedom of expression, no freedom of religion, no free press," he stated to an audience that included journalists and activists.
He acknowledged the diaspora's efforts in highlighting these issues and asserted his commitment to ensuring the international community understands that the Cuban people "have not had a voice."
Continuous Engagement with the Diaspora
The diplomat mentioned that Ambassador León, who recently arrived, could not attend the meeting due to presenting credentials to Spain's king. However, he assured continued engagement with the Cuban community in Europe. "We are listening," he said, urging attendees to channel reports, concerns, and ideas through U.S. embassies in various countries.
"We are not here to dictate how things should be done. You are capable, and you will determine the eventual future of a free Cuba," he added.
Humanitarian Aid and Monitoring the Crisis
Hammer recalled a conversation he had on January 9 at the White House with Rubio, during which the first question was about the Cuban people's situation and the humanitarian crisis. "He does not want to see the Cuban people suffer or go hungry," Hammer stated.
The diplomat detailed that following Hurricane Melissa, the United States initiated humanitarian assistance through Caritas Cuba, in coordination with the Cuban bishops' conference. Initially, three million dollars were sent, followed by an additional six million, totaling nine million dollars.
He noted his visits to the provinces of Holguín, Granma, Santiago, and Guantánamo, where he met with volunteers and victims, expressing satisfaction that aid was reaching "ordinary Cubans" rather than going through the regime.
"A Historic Moment"
In the closing segment of his remarks, Hammer highlighted the exceptional nature of the current political climate. "I've been a diplomat for 37 years, and I've never seen such a focus by a U.S. president on Latin America, the Caribbean, and especially Cuba, in my career," he declared.
He concluded with a statement that set the tone for the meeting: "This is a historic moment where change is not just possible; it is inevitable."
The message was received by attendees as a sign of support for the aspirations of democratic transformation on the island. Meanwhile, the diaspora continues to articulate proposals and strategies for Cuba's future.
Key Takeaways from Mike Hammer's Message on Cuba
What was the main purpose of Mike Hammer's meeting with the Cuban diaspora in Europe?
The main purpose of the meeting was to discuss the political future of Cuba and the role of the diaspora in a potential transformation process, as well as to listen to their concerns and proposals.
How does the U.S. administration view Cuba in terms of foreign policy?
The U.S. administration considers Cuba a priority in its foreign policy, focusing on Latin America and the Caribbean, with Cuba being a central aspect due to its proximity and national security implications.
What humanitarian actions has the U.S. taken toward Cuba recently?
The U.S. initiated humanitarian assistance following Hurricane Melissa, collaborating with Caritas Cuba and the Cuban bishops' conference, providing a total of nine million dollars to aid ordinary Cubans.