US offers Cuba aid tied to “fundamental changes” after CIA chief visit

The United States has reiterated its willingness to provide assistance to Cuba, but only if the communist-run island implements “fundamental changes” to its political system, following a rare visit by CIA Director John Ratcliffe to Havana.

Ratcliffe’s trip on May 14 is believed to be only the second time a CIA director has visited Cuba since the 1959 revolution, CNBC reports.

During the visit, he delivered a message to senior Cuban officials indicating that Washington would “seriously engage” with Havana — but “only if it makes fundamental changes,” according to Reuters.

On the same day, the CIA published photographs of Ratcliffe in Havana without providing context. CNBC said it had sought comment from the agency.

In response, the Cuban government said the meeting included discussions on potential cooperation in law enforcement and security. It stated that “both sides ... underscored their interest in developing bilateral cooperation between law enforcement agencies in the interest of the security of both countries, as well as regional and international security.”

Separately, CNN reported that the U.S. military has conducted dozens of intelligence-gathering flights near Cuba’s major cities since February, amid rising tensions between Washington and Havana.

Cuba, located about 100 miles from Florida, has faced worsening energy shortages following disruptions to oil imports. The Trump administration has labeled the country “an unusual and extraordinary threat” and has increased sanctions pressure, while also signaling possible future focus on Cuba after its campaign against Venezuela.

The United States has also offered $100 million in humanitarian assistance, with officials linking the aid to reforms.

“The decision rests with the Cuban regime to accept our offer of assistance or deny critical life-saving aid and ultimately be accountable to the Cuban people for standing in the way of critical assistance,” the statement said.

Cuban officials, however, have rejected political conditions attached to aid, insisting that sanctions are responsible for the country’s deepening energy crisis and widespread blackouts.

By Sabina Mammadli