In a surprising revelation on Thursday (29), a former ambassador of the United States confessed that he covertly worked as an agent for Cuban intelligence for a significant span of time. This unexpected admission has been sourced from the globally recognized news agency, the Associated Press (AP).
The AP reports that 73-year-old Víctor Manuel Rocha has officially pleaded guilty to federal accusations of scheming to function as a representative of a foreign government. As per the severity of the charge, Rocha could potentially face a substantial prison sentence extending over several years.
Rocha’s diplomatic career with the United States began in 1981, and over the years, he has held noteworthy posts in Bolivia, Argentina, as well as the U.S. Interests Section in Havana. His service to the country didn’t end with his retirement, as he continued to contribute as a special advisor to the U.S. Southern Command.
However, American prosecutors claim that Rocha’s service to the country was marred by his involvement in numerous clandestine activities on behalf of Cuba since the start of his diplomatic career. They allege that he regularly engaged in meetings with Cuban intelligence agents, sharing valuable information about the American government.
Evidence gathered by U.S. authorities, including recordings, paints a picture of Rocha’s apparent disregard for his home nation. The former ambassador was recorded boasting about his covert activities, openly labeling the U.S. as an adversary, and expressing admiration for Fidel Castro, the late communist dictator of Cuba, whom he addressed as “commander”.
Despite the severity of the charges and potential consequences, AP reports indicate that Rocha’s defense team has suggested that an agreement on the length of the sentence has been reached with American prosecutors, although the exact length remains undisclosed.
