China and Cuba have denied allegations that four facilities in Cuba are linked to Chinese intelligence operations targeting the United States. The claims were made in a report by the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), which used satellite imagery to analyze the sites.
Chinese Foreign Minister Mao Ning rejected the accusations, describing China’s partnership with Cuba as lawful and transparent. Cuban Foreign Minister Carlos de Cossio called the claims false, arguing they serve as justification for U.S. economic measures against Cuba.
The CSIS report identified four Cuban sites as potential surveillance bases, noting upgrades to these locations in recent years. One site near Bejucal was highlighted for its underground facilities and satellite antennas. The report stated that the site was active as recently as early 2024.
China’s financial support for Cuba, amounting to $7.8 billion over several decades, has drawn the two nations closer together. Critics worry this partnership could facilitate intelligence-gathering activities, particularly given Cuba’s proximity to U.S. military and space facilities in Florida.
Sen. Marco Rubio (R-FL), now nominated as Secretary of State by President-elect Donald Trump, has previously voiced concerns about Chinese activity in Cuba. In 2016, Rubio called for the closure of a suspected Chinese listening station near Bejucal.
The allegations have renewed attention on the growing relationship between China and Cuba and its potential impact on U.S. national security.
