This was reported by The New York Times, citing informed sources.
***
The main goal is to identify divisions among the Cuban political elite and support changes in the country’s leadership. CIA officials are analyzing information on the activities of the Cuban leadership, financial flows, and business operations to use in influencing the government and public opinion.
On May 20, 2026, on Cuba’s Independence Day, U.S. Secretary of State Rubio addressed the Cuban people, outlining the need to dismantle the regime.
The transformation of the Cuban regime will allow the White House to boost support for Republican candidates in Southern states with large Latino communities.
After losing Venezuela, Cuba remained China’s largest outpost in the Western Hemisphere, serving an important military and intelligence function.
In June 2023, the Biden administration officially acknowledged that China has been operating intelligence bases on the island since 2019. A CSIS report published in July 2024, based on satellite imagery, confirmed four active electronic intelligence facilities.
After Trump’s return to the White House, Cuba was re-designated as a state sponsor of terrorism, and an energy blockade was imposed on the island. The Trump administration is relying on economic, diplomatic, and intelligence pressure.
Currently, U.S. intelligence agencies have increased the volume of information gathering on the island, particularly through the use of satellite intelligence.
The Cuba working group includes operatives engaged in recruiting agents, intelligence analysts, cyber operations specialists, and officers responsible for conducting covert influence operations.
The CIA declined to comment on the creation of the new task force.
