Cuba accuses US envoy of violating diplomatic norms, issues warning
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Cuba defends its sovereignty by confronting US diplomatic overreach, accusing Washington’s envoy of meddling in internal affairs and violating international norms amid growing external pressure.
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A Cuban flag is seen next to an American flag outside the U.S. embassy in Havana, Cuba, May 17, 2022. (AP)
Cuba’s Foreign Ministry announced Friday that it has formally warned US Chief of Mission Mike Hammer over what it described as “disrespectful conduct” and “interventionist” behavior, which has long-standing tensions between Havana and Washington.
According to the ministry, Hammer encouraged “Cuban citizens to commit serious criminal acts, attack the constitutional order, or encourage them to act against the authorities.”
Cuban officials stress this behavior violates the Vienna Convention on diplomatic relations.
“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 stated.
Hammer, who has been stationed in Cuba for the past six months, has visited several regions across the island. His meetings with political dissidents and critics of the Cuban government have drawn increasing scrutiny from both authorities and the public, who accuse him of attempting to incite unrest.
While the Cuban government has voiced criticism for months, this is the first formal warning issued to the US diplomat.
Earlier this month, hundreds of thousands of Cubans filled the streets of Havana for the May Day rally, denouncing the decades-long US embargo on the country and condemning Washington’s restrictions on the island’s international medical missions. The protest also condemned sanctions related to Cuba’s long-running program of dispatching doctors abroad, a key source of both revenue and international influence for Havana.
Broader tensions amid economic crisis
The US State Department has firmly defended Hammer’s actions. A department official alleged that Hammer’s conduct aligns with Washington’s official stance and mission goals.
“Chief of Mission Mike Hammer and the US 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,” the official said.
“We will continue to meet with Cuban patriots, religious leaders, and those fighting for the freedoms of Cubans,” the statement added, signaling that Washington has no plans to meddle in the Latin American country.
The warning comes amid the most severe economic downturn Cuba has faced in decades. The Cuban government attributes much of the crisis to the ongoing US embargo, which it says has restricted trade, fuel access, tourism, and international financial transactions.
Despite rising friction, Cuban authorities have not moved to restrict Hammer’s travel within the country. His continued presence and activities, however, remain a focal point of concern for Havana.
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