On Wednesday, Miguel Díaz-Canel addressed Costa Rica's decision to shut down its embassy in Havana and scale back diplomatic ties to only consular relations, labeling the move—cynically—as "an unfriendly act" without any justification.
According to the Cuban leader on social media platform X, this decision is a result of "clear pressure from the United States government," describing it as part of a campaign to isolate Cuba on the global stage.
This reaction follows the Costa Rican government's announcement to close its diplomatic mission on the island and request the withdrawal of Cuban personnel from San José, effectively ending full diplomatic relations.
Costa Rican authorities cited the worsening human rights situation in Cuba as the reason behind their decision, highlighting the ongoing repression of activists, restrictions on fundamental freedoms, and the deepening economic crisis.
Instead of acknowledging the regime's continuous harassment of civil society, the Cuban leader chose to blame the United States government and alleged external pressures.
President Rodrigo Chaves defended the move as a political statement against what he termed an "unacceptable" situation, while also expressing solidarity with the Cuban people.
In his statement, Díaz-Canel maintained that the decision lacks legitimate grounds and assured that the historical ties between the two nations will endure despite the current diplomatic conflict.
Understanding the Diplomatic Rift Between Cuba and Costa Rica
Why did Costa Rica close its embassy in Cuba?
Costa Rica closed its embassy in Cuba due to the deteriorating human rights situation on the island, marked by repression against activists, limitations on fundamental freedoms, and worsening economic conditions.
What was Díaz-Canel's response to the closure?
Díaz-Canel labeled the closure as "an unfriendly act" and attributed it to pressure from the United States, rather than recognizing issues within Cuba that might have led to this diplomatic decision.
How did President Rodrigo Chaves justify Costa Rica's decision?
President Rodrigo Chaves justified the decision as a political statement, condemning the situation in Cuba as "unacceptable" and showing support for the Cuban people.