U.S. Ambassador to Cuba Faces Hostility in Trinidad
– U.S. Ambassador to Cuba, Mike Hammer, publicly addressed an incident in Trinidad where he was confronted with shouts and insults as he left the San Francisco de Paula Church following a visit with Father José Conrado Rodríguez.
In a message posted on the embassy’s Facebook page, Hammer stated he continues to travel around the island, meeting with everyday Cubans and discussing their “aspirations” and “desires for a better Cuba.”
Regarding the incident, the ambassador acknowledged that “some” people “shouted some insults,” suggesting they “belong to a certain party.” He asserted that these individuals “do not represent the Cuban people, the everyday Cubans,” and concluded with, “I hope to see you and until next time.”
The demonstration was initially reported by researcher Yanetsy Pino, who said Hammer visited the parish on Saturday morning. According to Pino, five people shouted at and accosted the ambassador in public and a video of the event was sent to her from Trinidad, capturing the initial shouts of the participants.
Journalist José Luis Tan Estrada identified one of the participants as Emilio González Fritze, who previously worked with the CTC and is now a “teacher at the Party school.”
Relations between the Cuban government and Ambassador Hammer have been increasingly strained since early 2025. Hammer has reported constant surveillance by State Security during his travels, and the MINREX summoned him to accuse him of inciting citizens to commit crimes and threaten constitutional order.
Another similar incident occurred in June 2025 in Regla, where Hammer was harassed by supporters of the regime while on his way to mass. This was also reportedly orchestrated by State Security. Hammer downplayed that incident, reiterating his commitment to a “street diplomacy” focused on directly listening to citizens.
The ambassador’s continued outreach efforts come as tensions remain high between the two countries. The incidents highlight the challenges of direct engagement with the Cuban population amidst a complex political landscape.