The Head of the U.S. Embassy in Cuba meets with Berta Soler and Martha Beatriz Roque, notable Cuban opposition leaders

Mike Hammer, recently appointed Mission Chief at the United States Embassy in Cuba, held a meeting with Berta Soler and Martha Beatriz Roque, two of the most prominent figures in the Cuban opposition.

"In celebration of #HumanRightsDay, it was an honor to meet with Berta Soler of the Ladies in White and Martha Beatriz, recipient of the #BraveWomen 2024 award. The United States calls for greater respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms in Cuba," the diplomatic mission in Havana wrote on X.

However, Soler, who shared details about the meeting on his social media, clarified that the encounter did not happen recently, but rather shortly after Hammer's arrival in Cuba.

In his statements, Soler emphasized that the American diplomat was receptive and attentively listened to the concerns of the opposition. In his case, the points discussed include:

• The freedom of Cuban political prisoners.
• The repression against the opposition.
• The general situation in Cuba.
• The reopening of the office for political refugees on the island.
• The importance of conditioning the relations between the United States and the Cuban regime on advancements in human rights.

He also expressed his gratitude for the logistical support provided by the U.S. Embassy, which facilitated his transportation to attend the meeting, emphasizing that his presence would not have been possible without that assistance.

Hammer, with a distinguished career spanning over 35 years in the diplomatic service, has engaged in meetings with various sectors of civil society on the island since his arrival in Havana.

Last November, during an evening event at the residence of the Spanish ambassador to Cuba, Javier Francisco Hergueta Garnica, the U.S. representative met with “prominent Cuban artists and personalities such as the troubadour Polito Ibáñez and the group Los Carpinteros,” as well as “notable figures from Cuban visual arts,” according to the diplomatic representation.

He also held meetings with religious leaders and representatives of the Jewish Community on the Island.

Regarding the first group, Hammer expressed that he felt "encouraged" when he heard them "speak about the great work that churches are doing by providing basic necessities and support to the Cuban people, despite the challenges they face. Religious freedom is a fundamental right."

He also mentioned that he met with Auxiliary Bishop Monsignor Eloy Domínguez, with whom he discussed the challenges that Cubans face daily and the work of the Catholic Church in Cuba.

Hammer arrived in Havana, replacing Benjamin G. Ziff. It remains to be seen whether the elected President of the United States, Donald Trump, will support him in the position or make other decisions regarding diplomatic representation on the Island.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Meeting between Mike Hammer and Cuban Opposition Figures