In a series of new remarks, Secretary of State Marco Rubio criticized the previous administration’s handling of the so-called “Havana Syndrome,” a series of unexplained health incidents affecting U.S. diplomats and intelligence personnel.
These incidents, first reported in 2016 in Havana, Cuba, involve symptoms such as sudden severe headaches, balance issues, memory lapses, and auditory disturbances.
Some affected individuals have experienced long-term or permanent neurological damage, leading to early retirements.
Rubio expressed skepticism toward the prior administration’s 2023 assessment, which suggested that no foreign adversary was responsible and that the reported symptoms might stem from pre-existing health conditions.
“Have directed energy weapons been used against U.S. Government personnel?” Herridge inquired.
“I do not believe – and the conclusions that we’ve seen in the past, and I think evidence and time will prove me correct – that these things happened by accident, that these things were a result of mass hysteria or some pre-existing conditions,” Rubio said.
.@SecRubio on those affected by anomalous health incidents: “These are people we sent abroad to serve our country. They were harmed in the service of our country, and they deserve our ongoing support.” pic.twitter.com/8KAmd10iQF
— Department of State (@StateDept) February 23, 2025
He emphasized his belief that these health issues were not accidental or psychosomatic but resulted from an external source. Rubio highlighted that these incidents have occurred in various locations worldwide, not just in Havana, indicating a broader pattern.
Having interacted with several affected individuals over the years, Rubio is convinced that certain cases lack any explanation other than exposure to an external mechanism causing brain injuries.
He stressed the importance of acknowledging these incidents and providing support to those impacted.
Rubio criticized the previous administration’s implication that victims might be fabricating their symptoms, labeling such insinuations as “outrageous.”
He called for transparency from the State Department, ensuring that affected individuals are fully informed about any developments related to their conditions.
Under Rubio’s direction, the current administration is committed to treating these individuals as victims harmed while serving the nation abroad.
He emphasized the necessity of offering continuous support and refraining from dismissive judgments about their experiences.
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