Raul Castro's Grandson Tried to Bypass Diplomacy to Reach Trump

Proposal for economic cooperation and sanctions relief seized by US customs

Apr. 18, 2026 at 10:04am

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A dimly lit, cinematic painting of a lone Cuban businessman standing in a Miami airport terminal, the warm diagonal sunlight and deep shadows creating a sense of mystery and unease around his secretive mission.A clandestine attempt to influence US-Cuba relations outside official diplomatic channels exposes the continued tensions between the two nations.Today in Miami

According to The Wall Street Journal, Raul Castro's grandson attempted to bypass diplomatic channels and send a letter directly to former President Trump with proposals for economic cooperation and easing sanctions against Cuba. The letter was to be delivered by a Cuban businessman, but he was detained by US customs upon arrival in Miami and the letter was seized.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the continued tensions and complex diplomatic relationship between the US and Cuba, even after the Obama-era thaw in relations. It also demonstrates the lengths some Cuban officials may go to try to influence US policy outside of official government-to-government channels.

The details

The Wall Street Journal reports that Castro's grandson convinced a wealthy Cuban businessman named Roberto Gonzalez to personally deliver the letter to the White House. The letter allegedly contained proposals for economic and investment agreements, as well as information that Cuba was preparing for a potential US invasion. However, Gonzalez was detained by US customs authorities upon arrival in Miami, and the letter was seized. The reasons for Gonzalez's detention remain unclear, and the White House did not respond to questions about whether the letter was eventually delivered.

  • The incident occurred in April 2026.

The players

Raul Castro

Former President of Cuba and grandfather of the individual who attempted to send the letter.

Roberto Gonzalez

A wealthy Cuban businessman who was tasked with delivering the letter to the White House.

Donald Trump

Former President of the United States, the intended recipient of the letter.

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The takeaway

This incident highlights the continued tensions and complex diplomatic relationship between the US and Cuba, even after efforts to improve relations. It demonstrates the lengths some Cuban officials may go to try to influence US policy outside of official government-to-government channels.