US boosts intelligence presence in Cuba to pressure Havana amid crisis

The United States has increased its intelligence presence in Cuba to pressure Havana amid one of the country's worst historical crises, according to Politico. The move involves more agents and resources, with sources confirming the escalation. Two anonymous sources told Politico the effort includes a CIA presence boost in recent months, though details on scope and agencies remain undisclosed. This could foreshadow actions ranging from military operations to intensified efforts against President Miguel Díaz-Canel's government. The escalation follows decades of espionage between the ideological foes, with tensions rising through sanctions, oil blockades, and recent blackouts. CIA Director John Ratcliffe visited Cuba in May, and the U.S. has conducted at least 25 military flights near the island.