Closure of Cuba's Radio Martí: A Trump administration legacy
The closure of the information station Radio Martí, which opposes the Cuban communist regime, is something the Castro brothers could not achieve, but which Donald Trump accomplished in a few days, comments the "New York Times". This is another result of the reduction in American financial aid.
What do you need to know?
- Radio Martí, a station opposed to the Cuban regime, was closed by Donald Trump's administration.
- The website, as well as the television and radio signals of the station in Cuba, were blocked, although the message still reaches through social media.
- Mauricio Claver-Carone, advisor to the U.S. President, has expressed hope for saving the station, highlighting its historical significance.
The closure of Radio Martí, a station opposing the Cuban regime, has sparked widespread reactions. The "New York Times" highlights that what the Castro brothers could not achieve in 40 years, Donald Trump managed in just a few days.
Station employees have reported that its website and the television and radio signals in Cuba have been blocked. Nonetheless, the message still reaches the people of Cuba via social media.
Does Radio Martí have a chance of returning?
Mauricio Claver-Carone, the U.S. President's advisor on Latin American affairs, has expressed hope for saving the station.
Mario Diaz-Balart, a Cuban-American member of Congress, announced his collaboration with the U.S. President to revive Radio Martí. He noted that while the station's historical importance and past role are worth recognizing, it also needs to be updated to align with the realities of the modern world.
Radio Martí, established in 1983 during Ronald Reagan's presidency, was criticised for "ineffective propaganda" and corrupt practices. A 2019 audit accused the station of low-level journalism and nepotism. Nevertheless, in recent years, its listenership has increased, with 80 per cent of its audience coming from Cuba. The "New York Times" notes that unlike other stations that have been closed, Radio Martí was directed against a specific dictatorship that still remains in power.
