China has rejected a report accusing it of operating four surveillance facilities in Cuba to target the United States. The claims, made by the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), have also been dismissed by Cuban officials.
Chinese Foreign Minister Mao Ning defended China’s partnership with Cuba, stating that the relationship is transparent and not intended to harm any third party. Cuban Foreign Minister Carlos de Cossio echoed these sentiments, calling the report an attempt to justify U.S. sanctions.
The CSIS report focused on four sites in Cuba believed to have connections to Chinese intelligence. One site near Bejucal was highlighted for its underground infrastructure and satellite antennas. The report stated that the site was operational as recently as March 2024, despite Cuba’s economic challenges.
China has provided $7.8 billion in development aid to Cuba over the years, a partnership that has drawn concern from U.S. officials. Given Cuba’s proximity to Florida, critics warn that the alliance could enable intelligence-gathering operations targeting U.S. military and space installations.
Sen. Marco Rubio (R-FL) has long been vocal about Chinese activity in Cuba. In 2016, Rubio called for the closure of a suspected Chinese listening post near Bejucal. As President-elect Donald Trump’s nominee for Secretary of State, Rubio may take a stronger stance on these issues.
While both nations deny the allegations, the report has renewed focus on Beijing’s expanding influence in the Western Hemisphere and its implications for U.S. security.
