politics
Rhode Island GOP Candidate Meets Cuban Official's Grandson
A Rhode Island congressional candidate traveled to Cuba and met with the grandson of former Cuban leader Raul Castro. The State Department stated the candidate is not authorized to represent the U.S. government.
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Rhode Island GOP congressional candidate Vic Mellor met with Raúl Guillermo Rodríguez Castro, the grandson of former Cuban leader Raúl Castro, during a trip to Havana. Mellor, 57, described the meetings as private discussions focused on humanitarian supplies and economic conditions. He said the conversations lasted several hours and covered policy updates.
Background on the Trip Mellor made an earlier visit to Havana in late May to deliver humanitarian supplies. He stated the trip was prompted by members of the National Cuban-American Chamber of Commerce. " Mellor said he has not spoken with State Department, White House, or other diplomatic officials about the visit.
He added that he was not negotiating or back-channeling.
Mellor is seeking to unseat the Democratic incumbent in Rhode Island's congressional race. He previously served as chief of staff to Gen. Mike Flynn under President Donald Trump. Mellor has defended his participation in the January 6, 2021 march in Washington. He said both the U.S. and Cuba want prosperity for their people.
