Rubio Confronts Caribbean Leaders Over Energy, Migration, and Cuban Medical Programs
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio's Caribbean visit focuses on reducing reliance on Venezuelan oil, addressing Haiti's instability, and engaging with leaders over U.S. accusations against Cuban medical missions.
- Rubio's agenda prioritizes energy diversification, urging Caribbean nations to reduce dependence on Venezuelan oil following new U.S. sanctions and threatened tariffs.
- Discussions with Caribbean leaders include strategies to combat escalating gang violence in Haiti, where a Kenyan-led security mission faces challenges in stabilizing the country.
- Jamaica and other Caribbean nations reject U.S. claims that Cuban medical missions involve forced labor, emphasizing the programs' critical role in regional healthcare.
- Rubio engages with Guyana, highlighting U.S. support for its oil reserves and border security amid tensions with Venezuela over the disputed Essequibo region.
- The U.S. is considering visa restrictions tied to Cuban medical programs, a move Caribbean leaders argue could harm their healthcare systems and economies.
United States Department of State 
