Investigation into Alleged Cuban Influence Networks through Activist Campaigns

Overview of Allegations

This article is the third part of an investigative series by Fox News Digital that examines allegations regarding the influence networks built and cultivated by the Communist Party of Cuba. These networks involve nonprofits, activist organizations, solidarity campaigns, labor unions, educational exchanges, and political delegations.

Response to U.S. Sanctions on Cuba

In response to increased sanctions pressure on Cuba by President Donald Trump, Twitch streamer Hasan Piker reached out to his friend, David Adler, for advice. Piker stated during an online interview, “What followed…was the assembly of a transnational convoy that brought hundreds of activists, politicians, journalists, and organizers from dozens of countries to Cuba.” This campaign was termed “Nuestra América Convoy,” aiming to deliver about 40 tons of supplies as branded “Our America Convoy.”

Federal Investigation

Piker’s involvement in the trip has drawn scrutiny from federal investigators. Fox News Digital exclusively reported that the Treasury Department’s Office of Foreign Assets Control issued subpoenas to Piker and CodePink co-founder Medea Benjamin. These seek records related to Cuba travel, communications, and financial activity.

The investigation focuses on travel records, communications, and financial records related to activities in Cuba, particularly any contacts with Cuban government personnel or entities.

Key Figures and Organizations

The trip has attracted attention to figures like CodePink, Hasan Piker, Shanghai-based American Marxist tech tycoon Neville Roy Singham, and his wife Jodie Evans, who posted a photo with Piker in Havana.

Data scientist Jennica Pounds, known as “Data Republican,” has analyzed hundreds of hours of Piker’s livestreams and interviews, identifying Progressive International as central to the mission. This organization is led by Adler.

Progressive International has been described as dangerous, providing political legitimacy to regimes with records of repression. Cuban American journalist Gelet Martinez Fragela claims it is part of a propaganda strategy by the Cuban regime to build alliances and maintain power.

Progressive International’s Role

Progressive International is part of a larger network mobilizing in support of the Cuban government. Founded in 2020, it emerged from a political initiative launched by Democratic Sen. Bernie Sanders and former Greek Finance Minister Yanis Varoufakis. Adler, a central figure, leads a nonprofit called Progressive International Exchange Inc.

The organization coordinated the Cuba convoy, with extensive international participation involving delegates from 33 countries and 120 organizations.

Links to Cuban Government

Adler’s ties with the Communist Party of Cuba highlight his unusual position within the Cuba solidarity movement. Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel intervened when Adler was detained in Israel during a flotilla to Gaza.

During the convoy’s visit to Cuba in March, Adler was seen beside Díaz-Canel at an event sponsored by the Cuban Institute of Friendship with the Peoples (ICAP).

Historical Context of Activism

The Nuestra América Convoy mirrors the model used within the Cuba solidarity movement for decades. Institutions connected to the Cuban state have organized trips, encompassing labor brigades, educational exchanges, solidarity delegations, and political tours.

Implications for U.S. Investigators

Federal investigators, focusing on logistics, finances, and potential contacts with Cuban personnel, consider the significance of the convoy extends beyond Hasan Piker’s journey to Havana.

Organizations like Progressive International, People’s Forum, CodePink, and the ANSWER Coalition are repeatedly found within the broader Cuba “solidarity” infrastructure, indicating a modern network of nonprofits and political campaigns.

For Cuban Americans challenging the regime, Adler represents a crucial part of this network trying to sustain communism in Cuba.