WASHINGTON – A senior Cuban diplomat visiting Washington has voiced serious concerns over escalating tensions with the United States, accusing the Trump administration of deliberately provoking a potential conflict between the two nations.
Johana Tablada, deputy director for U.S. affairs in Cuba’s foreign ministry, addressed reporters at the Cuban Embassy on Tuesday, warning that recent U.S. actions could push the two countries toward a dangerous confrontation. “Creating conditions for a rupture in relations—even a military clash—is reckless and not in anyone’s interest,” she said.
Tablada criticized a series of measures enacted under former President Donald Trump, including Cuba’s return to the U.S. list of State Sponsors of Terrorism, increased restrictions on remittances, and the suspension of key migration programs. She said these policies are aimed at sabotaging diplomatic ties and stirring instability.
Though no military threats have been made publicly, Tablada claimed the broader pattern of U.S. behavior was alarming. One flashpoint has been the actions of U.S. Chief of Mission Mike Hammer in Havana, whom Cuban authorities accused of encouraging dissent and violating diplomatic protocols.
Last week, Cuba’s foreign ministry issued a formal warning to Hammer, claiming he incited citizens to act against the government—a charge the U.S. has not publicly addressed.
The tightening of sanctions comes after a brief thaw under President Joe Biden’s previous administration, which had removed Cuba from the terrorism blacklist. Trump’s return to office reversed those steps, reinstating strict policies that have further strained bilateral relations.
Tablada emphasized that Cuba seeks to de-escalate, but warned that continued provocation by Washington could have serious consequences.