China’s Covert Intelligence Base in Cuba: A U.S. Security Concern

The Biden administration has revealed that China has been operating a secretive intelligence base in Cuba since at least 2019. This is part of a broader strategy by Beijing to bolster its global espionage capabilities. According to a senior U.S. official, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, American intelligence has long been aware of China’s activities in Cuba, as well as its global ambitions to establish extensive intelligence networks.

Diplomatic Efforts to Counter Chinese Espionage

In response to China’s expanding espionage efforts, the Biden administration has intensified its diplomatic efforts to curb these activities. The administration believes it has made some headway through these diplomatic measures, though specifics remain undisclosed.

Wall Street Journal’s Revelations

The existence of the spy base came to light following a Wall Street Journal report, which stated that China and Cuba had agreed in principle to construct an electronic surveillance station on the island. The report suggested that China planned to invest billions of dollars into the cash-strapped Cuban economy as part of this agreement.

Official Responses and Denials

However, the White House has disputed the accuracy of the Wall Street Journal’s report. National Security Council spokesman John Kirby commented, “I’ve seen that press report, it’s not accurate,” during an MSNBC interview. Kirby reiterated the administration’s ongoing vigilance regarding China’s global influence activities.

Ongoing Chinese Espionage

U.S. intelligence officials have identified Chinese spying from Cuba as an ongoing issue, not a new development. Cuban Deputy Foreign Minister Carlos Fernández de Cossío also refuted the allegations on Twitter, describing them as “slanderous speculation” aimed at causing unnecessary alarm.

Briefings on Chinese Global Activities

President Biden’s national security team has been briefed on various Chinese intelligence operations globally since he assumed office in January 2021. These briefings highlighted China’s plans to expand its logistics and intelligence-gathering infrastructure worldwide, including the upgrade of its Cuban facilities in 2019.

Escalating Tensions Between the U.S. and China

U.S.-China relations have been tense throughout Biden’s tenure. A notable low point occurred last year following then-House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s visit to Taiwan, which China considers its territory. This visit provoked military exercises by China around Taiwan.

Recent Strains and Diplomatic Outreach

Further strain was added earlier this year when the U.S. downed a Chinese spy balloon over American territory. Beijing was also upset by a recent visit from Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen to the U.S., which included a meeting with House Speaker Kevin McCarthy.

Despite these tensions, the Biden administration is keen to re-establish high-level communications with China. Secretary of State Antony Blinken is expected to visit China next week, a trip that was postponed due to the balloon incident. Blinken aims to engage with senior Chinese officials to mend bilateral ties.

Recent Diplomatic Interactions

Additionally, CIA Director William Burns had a meeting with his Chinese counterpart in Beijing last month. White House National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan also held discussions with his Chinese counterpart in Vienna in May, emphasizing the need for better high-level communications.

Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin briefly spoke with China’s Defense Minister Li Shangfu during a security forum in Singapore. Earlier, China had declined Austin’s request for a formal meeting at the forum.