US Investigates Activists Over Alleged Support for Cuba's Government
Federal Inquiry into Activist Support for Cuba
On Saturday, federal authorities issued subpoenas to political streamer Hasan Piker and anti-war advocate Susan Medea Benjamin as part of a broader investigation into potential support for Cuba's communist regime. Reports indicate that the inquiry is focused on whether US-based activists and organizations breached American sanctions during their visits to Cuba earlier this year.
The subpoenas were reportedly issued by the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC), a division of the US Treasury Department. They seek financial, travel, and communication records related to the March trips associated with the "Nuestra América Convoy," which translates to "Our America Convoy." This convoy included activists, influencers, and political groups who traveled to Cuba to deliver supplies and engage in events organized by pro-Cuban government entities, as noted by sources familiar with the investigation.
This investigation is part of a larger initiative by US officials to scrutinize alleged foreign influence operations and potential sanctions violations related to Cuba and other nations considered adversarial by the US. The inquiry involves officials from the Treasury, Justice, and State departments, focusing on whether activists or organizations coordinated with entities linked to the Cuban government or provided prohibited goods or services.
US law imposes restrictions on many financial and commercial interactions with Cuba under the Cuban Assets Control Regulations, although there are exemptions for journalism, humanitarian efforts, and educational activities. Investigators are reportedly looking into whether members of the March delegation stayed at hotels listed on the US State Department's "Cuba Restricted List," which identifies businesses associated with the Cuban state. Additional subpoenas may also be forthcoming.
Piker, a leading political streamer on Twitch, shared his experiences in Cuba on social media. On March 10, he announced on Instagram, "I'M GOING TO CUBA," and later shared photos from his visit, including images with activist Jodie Evans in Havana. The investigation also examines networks associated with businessman Neville Singham, who has faced criticism for allegedly funding groups that promote pro-China and pro-Cuba narratives. Organizations linked to Singham participated in the convoy alongside groups like the Democratic Socialists of America.
During a recent livestream, Piker condemned a US indictment against former Cuban leader Raúl Castro, labeling it a "sham" lacking legal validity. He also criticized former President Donald Trump, describing him as a "playground bully." Piker has previously stirred controversy with his political commentary during livestreams, including remarks about the September 11 attacks and US foreign policy. He has denied allegations of antisemitism, asserting that his critiques target the Israeli government, not Jewish individuals.
Benjamin, a co-founder of the activist organization CodePink, has also reportedly received an administrative subpoena related to the Cuba investigation. CodePink has a history of opposing US military interventions and sanctions, while critics accuse the group of defending authoritarian regimes, including those in Cuba, China, and Iran. Reports indicate that Benjamin traveled to Havana with fellow activist Tighe Barry as part of the March delegation. The Trump administration has increasingly focused on activist networks it claims are connected to foreign influence operations or extremist political activities.