Jamaica Threatened by US Congressman for PM Holness Statement on Cuba

2026-02-27 - 14:15

A senior U.S. lawmaker has sharply criticised Andrew Holness over remarks the Jamaican leader made about the crisis in Cuba as an overly sympathetic stance toward Havana. A Florida Republican took to social media on Wednesday to attack Holness’s comments at the 50th Regular Meeting of CARICOM Heads of Government in Saint Kitts and Nevis. He acknowledged the hardships facing the Cuban people and warned that prolonged instability could impact migration, security, and economic conditions throughout the Caribbean, including Jamaica. In reaction, Giménez condemned Holness’ speech, accusing the ruling Jamaica Labour Party of “covering up for the moribund dictatorship” in Cuba and invoking historical interference by Havana in Jamaican politics. The congressman concluded his post with a blunt warning: “Jamaica will face the consequences!” — a statement that has drawn attention across diplomatic and political circles. Giménez followed up with a separate message praising Kamla Persad‐Bissessar, the Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago. Jamaican Response and Wider Commentary While Giménez’s remarks have reverberated in Jamaica, not all officials view them as a realistic threat. Former U.S. Ambassador to Jamaica Luis G. Moreno dismissed the notion that Holness’ remarks could trigger punitive action from Washington as “silly,” noting that Jamaica’s diplomatic approach was balanced and within the bounds of international engagement. Meanwhile, one international relations expert in Jamaica said the U.S. congressman’s comments have not generated widespread concern among policymakers, especially as the official U.S. government position, represented at the summit by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, has been more focused on regional security cooperation than on reprimanding Caribbean leaders. Context: Cuba, CARICOM and U.S. Policy Holness’ address reflected growing unease among Caribbean heads of government about the humanitarian and economic fallout from tightened U.S. restrictions on Cuba, particularly after the Trump administration’s measures curbing oil supplies to the island. Caribbean leaders have repeatedly called for dialogue and constructive solutions, noting that Cuba’s crisis could have sweeping effects across the region. The exchange between Holness and Giménez highlights the delicate diplomatic balancing act Caribbean states are navigating, maintaining strong historical and regional ties with Cuba, safeguarding national sovereignty, and responding to U.S. calls for political and economic reform in Havana, all while managing relations with major powers.