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Official Cuban media, such as Cubadebate and Derribando Muros, have recently criticized the alleged presence of devices from the company Starlink on the island, despite the existing restrictions on the importation of this equipment, which allow for internet connectivity without the need for ETECSA.
In an article titled "Musk's Satellite Tentacles Reach Cuba," journalist Gustavo Veiga accused Starlink of trying to "flood" the country with its electronic devices, which need to be activated from abroad to function.
The text linked this action to an alleged "destabilization strategy" led by U.S. President Donald Trump and businessman Elon Musk.
According to the report, the presence of Starlink equipment in Cuba "violates the provisions of the Ministry of Communications," which requires special permits for the importation of this technology.
Despite this, it is noted that some devices have already arrived on the island and are being sold on the popular classified ads platform Revolico, as they allow internet connectivity without the need for the state telecommunications company (Etecsa).
The article also mentions that Republican Congresswoman María Elvira Salazar expressed in November 2024 her intention to bring connectivity to Cuba through Starlink, in collaboration with Elon Musk.
Diplomatic sources cited by Derribando Muros stated that these attempts to introduce satellite technology to the island are linked to funds traditionally allocated to USAID, which are used to finance projects aimed at opposition groups within Cuba.
The Cuban government, accustomed to controlling internet consumption on the island through censorship, now claims that "the objective of these actions is to circumvent state control over telecommunications, facilitating uncontrolled access to the internet through the national radio spectrum."
For Cubans, on the other hand, it is an alternative to connect to the internet without the control of the state-run ETECSA.
The devices are primarily being used by private businesses and entrepreneurs, who require faster and more stable connections than those offered by ETECSA.
Frequently Asked Questions about Starlink's Presence in Cuba
Why has the Cuban government criticized the presence of Starlink on the island?
The Cuban government has criticized the presence of Starlink on the island because it believes it is an attempt to evade state control over telecommunications, facilitating unregulated access to the internet. Furthermore, it is alleged that this is part of a "destabilization strategy" led by Donald Trump and Elon Musk.
How is it possible for Starlink to work in Cuba despite the restrictions?
Starlink can work in Cuba if the devices are activated from a third country. Although the import of this equipment is officially prohibited, some residents have managed to activate and use them through activation systems from abroad, allowing them to access the internet without going through ETECSA's control.
What role does María Elvira Salazar play in the introduction of Starlink in Cuba?
María Elvira Salazar has been an active advocate for bringing connectivity to Cuba through Starlink. She has had discussions with Elon Musk to explore the possibility of bringing free internet to the island, emphasizing that the technology is available and only the will to implement it is lacking.
What risks do Cubans face when using Starlink illegally?
Cubans using Starlink illegally face significant legal risks. The authorities' surveillance is intense, and there are reports of State Security operations against users and technicians who install these devices. Moreover, importing without the proper permissions is a crime in Cuba.
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