China and Cuba have dismissed accusations of espionage activities, following a report from the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) that identified four Cuban sites allegedly linked to Chinese intelligence operations.
Chinese Foreign Minister Mao Ning defended the relationship between the two countries, calling it transparent and lawful. She labeled the claims as groundless and politically motivated. Cuban Foreign Minister Carlos de Cossio echoed these sentiments, arguing the report was a tactic to rationalize U.S. sanctions on Cuba.
CSIS pointed to four locations in Cuba as potential bases for surveillance operations, highlighting upgrades made to these facilities in recent years. One site, located near Bejucal, features underground entrances and satellite antennas. Imagery showed it was operational as recently as early 2024.
China has provided Cuba with $7.8 billion in development funding over several decades, strengthening their alliance. Critics have expressed concerns that this financial support could enable intelligence activities targeting U.S. locations, including military and space installations in Florida.
Sen. Marco Rubio (R-FL) has long opposed China’s involvement in Cuba. In 2016, he called for the removal of a suspected Chinese listening station near Bejucal. As President-elect Donald Trump’s Secretary of State nominee, Rubio may focus on these issues in his new role.
The allegations have reignited debate over the implications of closer ties between China and Cuba, with national security concerns remaining at the forefront.
