US Reaffirms USD100M Aid Offer to Cuba Amid Dispute

(MENAFN) The United States has renewed its proposal to provide $100 million in direct humanitarian assistance to the Cuban population, while simultaneously pressing for political and economic reforms and accusing Havana of rejecting earlier assistance efforts, according to official statements.

As stated by reports citing a State Department spokesperson, the US administration argued that Cuba’s governing system has failed its citizens. The spokesperson said, "The United States continues to seek meaningful reforms to Cuba’s communist system, which has only served to enrich the elites and condemn the Cuban people to poverty," reflecting Washington’s continued criticism of the island’s political structure.

US officials also referenced prior outreach efforts by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, noting that he had reportedly made multiple private proposals to Cuban authorities. These included support for expanded communication access, such as *"free and fast satellite internet,"* alongside humanitarian assistance aimed at alleviating economic hardship faced by ordinary citizens.

However, according to reports, Cuban authorities have declined to approve or facilitate the delivery of such aid in previous discussions. In response, the State Department reiterated its latest offer, describing it as a substantial humanitarian package intended for direct distribution.

The proposal would channel the $100 million through independent organizations rather than Cuban government institutions. As stated in the official remarks, "Today, the Department of State is publicly restating the United States' generous offer to provide an additional $100 million in direct humanitarian assistance to the Cuban people that would be distributed in coordination with the Catholic Church and other reliable independent humanitarian organizations," emphasizing the US preference for non-state delivery mechanisms.

Officials further argued that responsibility now lies with Havana to decide whether to accept or reject the assistance, suggesting that refusal would have political consequences for the Cuban leadership, according to reports.

Cuban officials have rejected Washington’s framing of the situation. In comments posted on social media platform X, Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez Parrilla dismissed the US claim of an aid offer, calling it a "fable" and a "$100 million lie."

The exchange comes as Cuba continues to face severe economic pressure, including a fuel shortage and widespread electricity disruptions, which authorities attribute in part to longstanding external sanctions and broader structural challenges.

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