Rubio Urges Cubans to Work With CIA for Change

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio publicly urged Cubans to cooperate with the CIA to bring about political change in Cuba, framing it as an opportunity amid ongoing pressure on the island nation. He made the call on Friday, October 23, 2026, without providing further details. Rubio's statement comes as Washington intensifies sanctions and an energy crisis grips Cuba, following a de facto oil blockade imposed in January. The US has also issued an arrest warrant for former President Raúl Castro, while Rubio criticized the Cuban government for corruption and broken promises. The appeal is notable given the CIA's controversial history in Cuba and the US embargo in place since 1962. Rubio's message targets those seeking change, urging them to act now, as the island faces severe electricity shortages affecting its 9.4 million residents.