Mike Hammer, the head of the U.S. Embassy in Cuba, visited this weekend the tomb of José Martí in Santa Ifigenia on the eve of the 130th anniversary of his fall in battle.
The diplomatic mission released a video of Hammer's visit to the important necropolis, featuring a voiceover of the diplomat quoting Martí.
This weekend I visited Santa Ifigenia in Santiago de Cuba, where the tomb of the apostle of the homeland, José Martí, is located. On the 130th anniversary of his death in combat, it is important to remember his words: “The respect for the freedom of others’ thoughts, even of the most unfortunate people, is fanaticism in me. If I die or am killed, it will be for that reason,” Hammer said.
The American diplomat continued this weekend in Santiago de Cuba and Guantánamo his tour of Cuban cities, visiting families of political prisoners, representatives of civil society, and religious leaders.
In Palma Soriano, he shared his "harsh experiences" with "Pastor Lorenzo Rosales Fajardo, and others who, like him, were unjustly imprisoned on July 11, the families of political prisoners, and representatives of civil society."
Additionally, in Santiago de Cuba, he met with Father Camilo de la Paz Salmón, and in Guantánamo with Bishop Silvano Pedroso.
This week, Hammer met with the wife of the political prisoner and UNPACU leader José Daniel Ferrer, Dr. Nelva Ortega, whom he described as a “strong woman committed to her community.”
"José Daniel must be released, just like all the other political prisoners," stated the diplomatic mission.
The visit is part of a more active agenda by the American diplomat, who has intensified his meetings with dissidents, families of political prisoners, and members of the Cuban community since his arrival in Havana in November 2024.
The diplomat also had an exchange with Estrella Gell, mother of the young political prisoner Iam Gámez Gell, who is currently under house arrest.
With more than 35 years of experience in the foreign service, Mike Hammer took on his role as Chief of Mission in Havana in November 2024, succeeding Benjamin G. Ziff. Prior to his arrival in Cuba, Hammer played a key role as Special Envoy for the Horn of Africa.
During his diplomatic career, he has served as ambassador to Chile and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, in addition to holding high-level positions in the Department of State and the National Security Council.
With roots in Latin America—where he lived in countries such as Honduras, El Salvador, Colombia, Venezuela, and Brazil—Hammer speaks Spanish fluently, as well as French and Icelandic, and is recognized for his deep knowledge of the region.
Since his arrival in Cuba, the diplomat has held meetings with prominent figures of the opposition, including the intellectual Alina Bárbara López Hernández, and activists Berta Soler and Martha Beatriz Roque.
The regime in Havana has accused him of behaving like an activist who incites subversion.
Frequently Asked Questions about Mike Hammer's Visit to Cuba and His Diplomatic Activity
What was the reason for Mike Hammer's visit to José Martí's tomb?
Mike Hammer, head of the U.S. Embassy in Cuba, visited the tomb of José Martí in Santa Ifigenia to commemorate the 130th anniversary of his death in combat. During the visit, he recalled Martí's words about freedom and respect for others' thoughts, highlighting his legacy as a fighter for justice and human rights.
What activities did Mike Hammer undertake during his visit to Santiago de Cuba and Guantánamo?
During his stay in Santiago de Cuba and Guantánamo, Mike Hammer met with family members of political prisoners, representatives of civil society, and religious leaders. Among them, he shared experiences with Pastor Lorenzo Rosales Fajardo and met with Father Camilo de la Paz Salmón and Bishop Silvano Pedroso. These actions are part of his agenda to support dissent and human rights in Cuba.
How has Mike Hammer's interaction with the Cuban dissidence been?
Mike Hammer has intensified his meetings with opposition members and families of political prisoners since his arrival in Cuba. He has held discussions with prominent dissidents, such as José Daniel Ferrer, and activists Berta Soler and Martha Beatriz Roque, demonstrating the commitment of the United States to fundamental freedoms and condemning political persecution on the island.
What has been the Cuban regime's response to Mike Hammer's actions?
The Havana regime has accused Mike Hammer of behaving like an activist inciting subversion, in response to his diplomatic activities on the island. The Cuban government has reacted with a confrontational stance and intensified repression against dissent. This response reflects the existing tension between the official Cuban rhetoric and citizens' demands for greater freedoms.
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