Foreign Affairs Minister rejects claims that visit of USS Nimitz aircraft carrier is strategic show of military force to intimidate CUBA

Foreign Affairs Minister, Kamina Johnson Smith has rejected claims that the United States has docked the USS Nimitz aircraft carrier in Jamaica, as a strategic show of military force to intimidate Cuba.

US-Cuba relations are at their lowest point in decades, following intensified sanctions including a fuel blockade, the US’ indictment of former Cuban Leader, Raúl Castro, and US officials calling Cuba a failed State.

These developments, coupled with the size of the USS Nimitz, which stands at 1,092 feet long have caused public concern, that its recent docking at Kingston Harbour is a show of force.

However, addressing the matter at a post-Cabinet press conference this morning, Minister Johnson Smith maintained that the ship’s presence is part of a routine goodwill and diplomatic visit.