House Republicans are calling for a detailed threat assessment from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) regarding China’s growing intelligence activities in Cuba. In a letter to DHS Secretary Kristi Noem, several Republican leaders expressed concerns over China’s collaboration with Cuba, which has resulted in the establishment of at least four intelligence facilities on the island.
The sites, reportedly linked to China, have capabilities that could intercept sensitive communications and surveil U.S. defense operations. These facilities pose potential risks to several critical U.S. military installations within their range. Subcommittee Chairman Carlos Gimenez led a hearing featuring Dr. Ryan C. Berg from the Center for Strategic and International Studies, who presented new satellite imagery of these sites.
In their letter, Chairman Mark E. Green, Chairman John Moolenaar, Chairman Gimenez, Rep. Sheri Biggs, and Rep. Eli Crane requested a classified briefing and report on DHS’s current threat assessment and coordination efforts regarding Chinese infrastructure developments in Cuba.
The members highlighted analysis identifying PRC-linked intelligence facilities in Bejucal, Wajay, Calabazar, and El Salao. They noted technical upgrades at these sites, including new satellite dish arrays at Bejucal capable of intercepting telemetry data from U.S. space launches.
The letter also addressed China’s financial support to Cuba since 2000, amounting to nearly $8 billion for infrastructure projects like the Port of Santiago de Cuba and telecommunications networks built by Huawei and Zhongxing Telecommunication Equipment Corporation.
General Dan “Razin” Caine’s testimony before Congress emphasized the threat posed by Chinese cyber activities in Latin America. The presence of PRC technicians at Cuban intelligence sites suggests ongoing operational activity that requires attention from DHS and the U.S. Intelligence Community.
Republicans warn that unchecked Chinese activities in Cuba could establish a base for electronic warfare and influence operations undermining U.S. national security interests.
Earlier hearings examined China’s strategic port investments in the Western Hemisphere and their impact on homeland security. Concerns were raised about PRC-owned enterprises leveraging commercial port operations for power projection and surveillance.
A previous Wall Street Journal report revealed an agreement between China and Cuba for an espionage facility on the island—a claim initially denied but later confirmed by an anonymous Biden administration official.
Discussions also included an unannounced TSA visit by Cuban officials in July 2024 amid concerns over interactions with adversarial foreign governments under the Biden administration.
