In a surprising diplomatic shift, Cuban officials released Jose Daniel Ferrer, a prominent opposition activist, in the final days of the Biden administration. This move came two days after heightened diplomatic activity between the United States and Cuba. The release marks a significant moment for the Biden administration, which had long sought Ferrer's freedom as part of broader efforts to improve relations with the communist-run island. However, this breakthrough may face challenges with the incoming Trump administration, which has historically taken a hardline stance against Cuba.
Jose Daniel Ferrer, leader of one of Cuba's largest banned anti-government groups, was freed following years of international pressure. Ferrer was convicted for his involvement in the July 11, 2021 protests, the largest demonstrations on the island since Fidel Castro’s 1959 revolution. His release followed efforts by Vatican representatives and U.S. State Department officials who had conditioned any improvement in relations on the freedom of protestors like Ferrer. Cuban officials, however, maintained that they received no assurances that economic sanctions would be lifted.
The diplomatic flurry also saw the United States announce Cuba's removal from its list of countries that support terrorism. Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez Parrilla criticized the list, suggesting its political nature rather than being a genuine deterrent. This development raised hopes for easing economic sanctions that have long hindered Cuba's economy.
Despite these steps, Cuban officials remain wary of future U.S. policy shifts. The incoming Trump administration, under Secretary of State nominee Marco Rubio, has expressed skepticism about Cuba’s removal from the terrorism list. Rubio, a vocal critic of Cuba's government, blasted the decision and signaled potential policy reversals.
“There is zero doubt in my mind that they meet all the qualifications for being a state sponsor of terrorism,” – Marco Rubio
Peter Kornbluh, co-author of "Back Channel to Cuba: The Hidden History of Negotiations Between Washington and Havana," emphasized the effectiveness of diplomacy over coercion.
“Biden got some results,” he said. “He has reminded the world of the model of diplomacy and backchannel efforts to advance US interests. Trump and Rubio represent a model of coercion: sticks versus Biden’s carrots.” – Peter Kornbluh
For over three years, U.S. officials urged Cuba to release Ferrer as part of ongoing negotiations. Cuban officials, advocating for their removal from the terrorism list to alleviate economic penalties, responded to the Vatican’s request to free prisoners jailed for anti-government activities.
“Don’t be afraid to fight for a free, prosperous and just Cuba,” – Jose Daniel Ferrer
Ferrer’s release represents a diplomatic achievement for the Biden administration but may be short-lived with impending policy changes. Rubio’s comments during his confirmation hearing hinted at a potential reversion to stricter policies.
“And nothing that the Biden administration has agreed to in the last 12 or 18 hours binds the next administration, which starts on Monday.” – Marco Rubio
