Mike Hammer, the head of the U.S. Embassy in Cuba, recently held a meeting at the official Embassy residence in Havana with Fernando Ginarte Mora, a former political prisoner, and his children. This marks the second meeting between Hammer and Ginarte, underscoring Hammer's ongoing strategy of grassroots diplomacy since his arrival on the island.
The U.S. Embassy shared details of this encounter on social media, using the hashtag #WithEverydayCubans. The Embassy explained that this meeting was a reciprocal visit, stating, "After he graciously hosted us at his home, we extended an invitation to him at our residence in Havana." Ginarte and his children hail from Baire, located in the eastern part of the country.
Insights from a Former Political Prisoner
During the meeting, Ginarte shared personal stories about his life under the regime, his current concerns, and his hopes for Cuba's future. "He shared his experiences, worries, and dreams for Cuba's future," the Embassy noted in its post.
Ginarte is not only a political dissident but also a craftsman, painter, and poet. He was arrested on July 20, 2021, shortly after the significant protests on July 11, 2021, and sentenced to four years in prison for an alleged "attack" he denies. Part of his sentence was served at Agüica prison in Colón.
Struggles Beyond Prison Walls
The organization Prisoners Defenders has described Ginarte's status as "temporarily paroled under threat," a conditional release that human rights advocates argue does not equate to full freedom. Ginarte's persecution persisted even after his release; in November 2025, he reported being intentionally struck by a car while biking home in Baire, an incident he called a deliberate assault.
Diplomatic Efforts Amidst Resistance
Hammer, who took up his role in Cuba on November 14, 2024, has since traveled across the country meeting with dissidents, religious figures, independent journalists, and everyday Cubans. His notable meetings include visits with opposition leader José Daniel Ferrer in Santiago de Cuba, Father José Conrado Rodríguez in Trinidad, and Manuel Cuesta Morúa in Havana. He also attended a mass at the Church of Our Lady of Regla to pray for the release of political prisoners.
The Cuban State Security has consistently attempted to disrupt these engagements. In January 2026, Cuban authorities stated they would prevent further meetings between Hammer and opposition figures. In February, they detained opposition member Vladimiro Martín Castellanos in Puerto Padre, Las Tunas, just ahead of Hammer's visit.
Current Political Climate
Independent organizations report that Cuba currently holds over 1,000 political prisoners, many related to the July 11 protests. Although the regime announced partial releases in 2025 and 2026, groups like Prisoners Defenders noted these were conditional. In March 2026, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced the release of 51 prisoners, though the organization confirmed only 19 were political prisoners.
The Embassy reinforced its commitment to grassroots diplomacy: "We will continue engaging with Cubans across the country to better understand their challenges and aspirations, which is crucial for supporting the Cuban people."
Understanding the Situation of Political Prisoners in Cuba
Who is Fernando Ginarte Mora?
Fernando Ginarte Mora is a former Cuban political prisoner, craftsman, painter, and poet from Baire. He was arrested following the protests of July 11, 2021, and sentenced to four years in prison.
What is the significance of Mike Hammer's meetings in Cuba?
Mike Hammer's meetings in Cuba represent a strategic effort to engage with diverse groups on the island, including dissidents and regular citizens, to better understand their challenges and support their aspirations.
How has the Cuban government responded to Hammer's activities?
The Cuban government has attempted to disrupt Hammer's engagements with opposition figures and activists, including detaining individuals ahead of his visits and publicly stating intentions to prevent future meetings.