Mileydi Guilarte, who served in the White House during the Obama era and is now a professor at Francisco de Vitoria University in Spain, cautioned on Friday that military action in Cuba cannot be ruled out by the current U.S. administration. However, she emphasized that she does not support this course of action.
In an interview with CiberCuba, Guilarte stated, "I don't see how the government in Cuba will change without a mix of coercion and incentives. Striking that balance is incredibly challenging."
The Uncertainty of U.S.-Cuba Negotiations
When discussing the unpredictability of negotiations, she remarked, "It's unclear what will happen or what the success indicators would be in any negotiation with Cuba."
Guilarte also touched on the role of the Secretary of State in U.S.-Cuba relations. "Marco Rubio has somewhat faded from the media spotlight, but I don't think he's stepping back. He's already involved and understands the responsibility he's taken on," she commented. She further added, "It's too late to back out. He knew what the position entailed and must see it through to the end."
U.S. Demands and Cuba's Stance
Guilarte's remarks follow the expiration on April 24 of a two-week ultimatum from Washington to Havana, demanding the release of high-profile political prisoners, including Luis Manuel Otero Alcántara and Maykel Osorbo. The Cuban regime failed to meet these demands, claiming that "political prisoners are not on the negotiation table."
The Cuban government has also made it clear that there will be no negotiations if the United States demands political changes, with Díaz-Canel acknowledging that discussions remain in very early stages.
From Washington, Secretary of State Marco Rubio has stressed the need to reach the finish line with Cuba.
In light of this situation, Guilarte was firm in her stance: "I am not in favor of war, nor do I advocate for intervention, but with this administration, it cannot be dismissed. And I hope it doesn't come to that."
Questions on Potential U.S. Military Action in Cuba
Why can't a military intervention in Cuba be ruled out?
According to Mileydi Guilarte, the current U.S. administration has not excluded the possibility of military action, although she personally does not support such measures.
What was the response of the Cuban regime to U.S. demands?
The Cuban authorities did not fulfill the U.S. demands to release political prisoners, asserting that these prisoners are not part of the negotiation discussions.
What role does Marco Rubio play in U.S.-Cuba relations?
Marco Rubio, the Secretary of State, remains committed to pursuing negotiations with Cuba despite stepping out of the media limelight, indicating his dedication to his responsibilities.