Havana: Cuba’s Foreign Ministry has issued a formal verbal warning to the top U.S. diplomat in Havana, accusing him of engaging in what it described as “interventionist” conduct—another flashpoint in the increasingly strained relationship between the two nations.
In a statement released on Friday, Cuban authorities alleged that U.S. Chief of Mission Mike Hammer had incited Cuban citizens “to commit serious criminal acts, attack the constitutional order, or encourage them to act against the authorities.” Officials labeled his actions a breach of diplomatic norms as outlined in the Vienna Convention.
“The immunity he enjoys as a representative of his country cannot be used as cover for acts contrary to the sovereignty and internal order of the country to which he is accredited, in this case Cuba,” the ministry said in its official communication.
Hammer, a veteran American diplomat who assumed his post in Havana six months ago, has drawn criticism from Cuban officials for holding meetings with political dissidents and civil society leaders. Cuban authorities have claimed these engagements are intended to destabilize the country.
The U.S. State Department, however, stood firmly behind Hammer.
“Chief of Mission Mike Hammer and the U.S. Embassy proudly represent President Trump by implementing an America First foreign policy and seeking accountability for the Cuban regime for its malign influence across the Americas,” a State Department official said.
“We will continue to meet with Cuban patriots, religious leaders, and those fighting for the freedoms of Cubans,” the official added.
The tensions between Washington and Havana have deepened as Cuba continues to grapple with its worst economic crisis in decades. The Cuban government attributes much of the turmoil to the long-standing U.S. embargo, which severely restricts trade, financial transactions, and access to vital resources like fuel and medical supplies.
This latest rebuke of Hammer follows his recent remarks at a press conference in Miami, where he stated that the Trump administration was preparing additional sanctions against the Cuban government. While Cuban authorities have expressed dissatisfaction with Hammer’s actions over the past several months, they have not restricted his travel across the island.
