Congresswomen Ramirez, Velázquez Call Out Trump, Rubio’s Military Plans for Cuba

Washington, DC -Today, Congresswomen Delia C. Ramirez (IL-03) and Nydia Velázquez (NY-07), co-leads of H.Res. 1056, the New Good Neighbor Act, released the following statement in the face of rising military tension in Cuba. The statement follows a letter sent to the Trump administration demanding an end to military plans in Cuba.

"On March 16, Trump told a pool of reporters his administration's plans with Cuba: 'Taking Cuba in some form… whether I free it, take it. Think I could do anything I want with it.'

If the language sounds similar, it's because it's the narrative the Trump administration - including Rubio, Hegseth, and Miller- has used to justify the threats of annexation against Greenland, the summary execution of sailors in the Caribbean, the unlawful invasion of Venezuela, and the deadly and unlawful war in Iran. It is the same imperialist narrative that has been used for 250 years to justify the seizure of Puerto Rico, Hawaii, the Philippines, and all the other insular territories, incite coups across the Western Hemisphere, destabilize countries across the globe, justify unending war in the Middle East, and defend military presence in sovereign countries like Guantanamo in Cuba.

Right now, Trump and Rubio are executing the imperialist playbook - the same one they used in Venezuela and Iran - to justify another unauthorized and unlawful military invasion: use sanctions to manufacture a humanitarian crisis,hold humanitarian support hostage to coerce negotiation, amplify reports of possible military power by the "adversary", weaken international bodies and due process, and clear a path for private interests to profit.

For the Trump administration, the goal is another military incursion. They will justify their actions by claiming it serves the freedom of Cubans. Freedom has always been the U.S.'s justification for inflicting suffering, imposing unaccountable capitalism, and infringing on people's rights and liberties across the world. I unequivocally stand with all people who yearn to be free. History has shown us that peace and democracy have never been realized through strong men, United States imperialism, or unilateral military intervention. It is the action of the people that secures lasting change and enduring peace. Today, we must act to stop the destructive ambitions of imperialists and warmongers. Congress must act to pass a war power resolution and commit to a new relationship with our neighbors."