Cuban Deputy Foreign Minister Carlos Fernández de Cossío has issued a statement accusing the Cuban exile community in South Florida of pushing what he describes as an "aggressive and vindictive" agenda against Cuba. He refers to this group as the "anti-Cuban fraternity in South Florida."
In his remarks, the official from the Cuban government claims that this faction represents the views of only a "tiny segment of the American political landscape," including Cuban Americans. However, he argues that they wield "disproportionate influence due to the corrupt nature, financial power, and deceptive capabilities within the political system of the host regime that uses them as pawns."
Fernández de Cossío alleges that these individuals target their anger "not only at the Cuban people and many Cubans residing in the U.S. but also at American citizens and businesses for engaging or wishing to engage with Cuba, which many view as a basic right."
The deputy foreign minister describes the politicians who support this agenda as "politicians for hire," suggesting they act as "the coercive and repressive arm of the great empire to crush anyone who speaks out against the unjust, abusive, and senseless war waged on the Cuban nation," driven by "political opportunism."
He concludes his statement with a sarcastic jab at the hardline exiles: "Among them, there is an unmistakable scent of desperation over the delay in realizing their conquest ambitions."
Rising Tensions Between Havana and Miami Exiles
These statements come amid escalating tensions between Havana and segments of the Cuban exile community in Miami. Fernández de Cossío has consistently maintained a combative tone throughout 2026, frequently criticizing figures such as Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Cuban American lawmakers.
On May 24, the deputy foreign minister declared that Cuba was ready to engage in dialogue with the United States on bilateral issues but firmly rejected any interference in the island's political system. He blamed Cuba's economic crisis on a "calculated plan" by Washington to inflict suffering on the population.
Two days later, on May 26, he labeled those advocating for potential U.S. military intervention in Cuba as "accomplices" and warned of the risk of a "bloodbath," as reported by the Nodal portal in its coverage of his statements.
This week's statement continues along the same lines, with an especially confrontational tone towards the South Florida exile community as a political force with sway in Washington. The Cuban government holds this group responsible for maintaining the maximum pressure policies against the island.
Key Questions on Cuba's Political Climate
What does Carlos Fernández de Cossío accuse the Florida exile community of?
Carlos Fernández de Cossío accuses them of pursuing an "aggressive and vindictive" agenda against Cuba and wielding disproportionate influence in American politics.
How does Fernández de Cossío view politicians who support the exile community's agenda?
He describes them as "politicians for hire" driven by political opportunism, acting as enforcers of foreign interests against Cuba.
What recent statements has Fernández de Cossío made about Cuba-U.S. relations?
He stated that Cuba is open to dialogue with the U.S. on bilateral issues but rejects interference in its political system, attributing Cuba's economic woes to U.S. actions.