The head of the U.S. diplomatic mission in Cuba, Mike Hammer, visited the Santa Susana Convent nursing home in Bejucal this Friday, as part of his ongoing outreach to the most vulnerable sectors of Cuban society.
In a post shared on social media, Hammer expressed that the experience was "very moving," highlighting the efforts of the nuns who run the center and who daily provide food, companionship, and care to dozens of elderly individuals.
"Many ordinary Cubans have suggested to me on Facebook that I meet with the elderly to understand their situation. So we went to the home at the Santa Susana Convent to see how the nuns support and feed those in need," he commented.
The visit also included a tour of the San Felipe church, where local volunteers serve meals daily to children and the elderly.
"It is very moving to see how the Church supports the elderly and those in need in the midst of the serious situation the country is facing. Without you, it would be even worse," added the diplomat.
This action takes place one day after the U.S. State Department categorically rejected the criticism from Cuban Deputy Minister Carlos Fernández de Cossío, who accused Hammer of "interfering behavior" and left open the possibility of declaring him a non grata person.
Washington described those statements as "another unfounded attack from the Cuban regime."
Diplomatic sources told CiberCuba that "there is nothing the Cuban dictatorship fears more than truly free and fair elections."
Furthermore, they denounced the failed policies of the Cuban government that have led to "blackouts, shortages of food, medicines, and basic services."
Despite the regime's criticisms, Hammer has maintained an active schedule of visits to communities, families, dissidents, and now also to vulnerable elderly people, with the aim of strengthening ties with civil society and supporting humanitarian initiatives on the island.
The U.S. Embassy in Havana has reiterated its commitment to the Cuban people and has affirmed that its diplomatic efforts will continue to focus on promoting human rights and fundamental freedoms in Cuba.
Frequently Asked Questions about Mike Hammer's Visit to Cuba and Its Diplomatic Impact
Who is Mike Hammer and what is his role in Cuba?
Mike Hammer has been the head of the United States diplomatic mission in Cuba since November 2024. His main role is to strengthen diplomatic and humanitarian ties between the two countries, promoting human rights and fundamental freedoms on the island. Hammer has been active in visiting and engaging with various sectors of Cuban society, including the elderly, opponents, and religious leaders, despite criticism from the Cuban regime.
Why does the Cuban regime criticize Mike Hammer?
The Cuban regime accuses Mike Hammer of "interventions behavior" and criticizes him for his visits to dissident sectors and his support for civil society. The criticisms focus on the view that his actions are seen as a strategy for political destabilization, accusing him of promoting disorder and acting against the constitutional order of the country. However, Hammer and the U.S. government defend his work as part of his diplomatic functions protected by the Vienna Convention.
What was the purpose of Hammer's visit to the nursing home in Bejucal?
The visit of Mike Hammer to the nursing home in Bejucal was part of his effort to reach out to the most vulnerable sectors of Cuban society. The purpose was to better understand the situation of the elderly in Cuba and to highlight the humanitarian support they receive from religious institutions like the Santa Susana Convent. This action also reinforces the commitment of the U.S. Embassy to support humanitarian and human rights initiatives on the island.
How has the United States responded to the Cuban regime's criticisms of Mike Hammer?
The United States has categorically rejected the criticisms from the Cuban regime regarding Mike Hammer, labeling them as unfounded attacks. The U.S. government has reaffirmed its support for Hammer and his mission in Cuba, insisting that his actions are part of his diplomatic duties. Washington has emphasized its commitment to the Cuban people and the promotion of their rights and freedoms in the face of the repressive policies of the Cuban regime.
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