The Trump administration has vowed to destroy anything with President Barack Obama's name on it. The latest in a series of irresponsible behaviour was a few weeks ago with the expulsion of 15 Cuban diplomats serving in the Embassy.

The mysterious 'sonic attack' on American Embassy personnel in Cuba is undoubtedly very worrying. But President Raoul Castro summoned the top American envoy to express his concern, offer immediate assistance and allow the Federal Bureau of Investigation into Cuba – hardly normal procedure for the Cuban government.

If Cuba was not responsible for the 'sonic attack', the quick expulsion of its diplomats should be read as a grave assault on the improved relations between it and the United States of America. But, as usual, Trump was in a hurry and ordered the expulsion.

Considering President Castro's quick actions, offering assistance and letting the FBI enter Cuba to investigate, and given that personnel from Canada, with which Cuba has long maintained a very cordial relationship, were also attacked, proves Trump wrong when he accused the Cuban government of complicity.

A great majority of Americans support the improved relations with Cuba, thanks mainly to Barack Obama's personal intervention. Undermining the good progress made in US relations with Cuba, Trump's hasty actions would certainly harm American business interests and damage America's image on the world stage.

If the Trump administration wishes to go after Cold War adversaries, maybe it would be better if it started with Russia and the Machiavellian Vladimir Putin.

 

Jos Edmond Zarb