Cuba must not be punished at the expense of its people
The Trump administration’s escalating pressure on Cuba raises a profound humanitarian and moral question: how can punishing an entire population bring justice or peace?
Donald Trump bears ultimate responsibility for U.S. policy, while Marco Rubio has played a leading role in directing the administration’s Cuba policy. The administration has expanded sanctions and intensified economic pressure on the island.
Whatever one thinks of the Cuban government, ordinary Cubans should not be treated as collateral damage. A tiny island struggling with shortages of food, water and electricity should not be pushed further into desperation.
The contrast with the enormous resources devoted to the Guantánamo detention facility makes this especially disturbing. The United States, as the world’s most powerful nation, should use its strength to relieve human suffering, not deepen it.
Marco Rubio, as a Cuban American, has a special responsibility to consider the human consequences of these policies. The United States should pursue diplomacy and humanitarian assistance while protecting innocent people.