Rubio urges Cubans to work with CIA for political change after Trump's military threats

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio urged Cubans seeking political change to partner with the CIA, saying "now is the time," following President Donald Trump's renewed threats of military intervention in Cuba during a campaign rally in Florida. Rubio's call came after Trump suggested American warships returning from Iran could stop off Cuba's coast, hinting at possible military action if negotiations fail. Cuban officials rejected the statements, with Deputy Foreign Minister Carlos Fernandez de Cossio mocking Washington's "desperation" for public CIA recruitment. Both Trump and Rubio have consistently taken a hard line on Cuba, with Trump previously suggesting the nation could be "next" for intervention. The administration has imposed additional sanctions on Havana, while Cuba faces severe economic strain under its current leadership.