During his visit to Latin America, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio accused Cuba, Nicaragua, and Venezuela of causing a regional migration crisis, labeling them “enemies of humanity.” He specifically criticized Nicaragua’s regime under Ortega for suppressing dissent. In response, Cuban President Diaz-Canel blamed the US embargo for migration, while regional cooperation was discussed with El Salvador’s Bukele.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has condemned the authoritarian regimes in Cuba, Nicaragua, and Venezuela, attributing the current migration crisis in the region to their governance. During his tour across Latin America, Rubio emphasized the detrimental effects these governments have on the populace, stating, “Those three regimes that exist in Nicaragua, Venezuela and Cuba are enemies of humanity and they have created a migration crisis.” He asserted that without these governments, the mass migration from the Western hemisphere would not be occurring.
Rubio particularly targeted Nicaragua, criticizing President Daniel Ortega’s consolidation of power and the regime’s efforts to suppress dissent and religious freedoms. “In the case of Nicaragua, it’s turned into a family dynasty with a co-presidency where they’ve basically tried to eliminate the Catholic Church and the religious community,” Rubio elaborated. He noted that many Nicaraguans are fleeing oppressive conditions similar to those in Cuba and Venezuela.
Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel responded vehemently to Rubio’s accusations, asserting that the migration exodus from Cuba correlates directly with the United States’ six-decade trade embargo. He characterized Rubio’s comments as illustrating the “shamelessness” of US politicians and proclaimed, “Humanity is endangered by your neofascism.” This highlights the ongoing tensions between the US and these leftist governments, as both sides exchange verbal barbs.
Rubio’s visit included meetings in Costa Rica before heading to Guatemala, where discussions with El Salvador’s President Nayib Bukele touched upon regional cooperation on crime. Bukele expressed willingness to house incarcerated US convicts in the newly opened mega-prison for gang members, showing a controversial but pragmatic approach to regional issues. Rubio acknowledged this offer as a step towards addressing crime associated with gang activities in Central America.
The article addresses the statements made by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio during his Latin America tour, focusing on the migration challenges faced in the region. It reveals the intersection of political ideologies, as detailed critiques are directed at the ruling authorities in Cuba, Nicaragua, and Venezuela. The broader context includes Cuba’s strained relations with the US due to the economic embargo and Nicaragua’s escalating authoritarianism under Daniel Ortega. Additionally, it touches upon regional dynamics, particularly the criminal challenges faced by Central American countries and the responses by their leadership.
In conclusion, Marco Rubio’s strong denunciation of Cuba, Nicaragua, and Venezuela sheds light on the complex factors driving migration in the region, emphasizing the role of authoritarian governance. The exchange of viewpoints showcases the persistent tensions between US foreign policy and Latin American regimes. President Diaz-Canel’s rebuttal underscores the broader implications of the US embargo on Cuba, while regional cooperation efforts highlighted by Bukele represent a pragmatic approach amid ongoing challenges.
Original Source: www.rfi.fr
