Costa Rica shutters its embassy in Cuba and orders diplomats to leave

Costa Rica closed its embassy in Havana on Wednesday and ordered Cuba to withdraw its diplomats from Costa Rican territory, marking a significant rupture in diplomatic relations between the two Central American and Caribbean nations. The move signals Costa Rica's sharp pivot away from Cuba at a moment of broader regional realignment, as several Latin American countries have reassessed ties with Havana in recent months. The closure removes Costa Rica's diplomatic presence on the island and reciprocally expels Cuban officials from San José, effectively suspending formal bilateral relations. Costa Rica, traditionally one of Cuba's more moderate neighbors in the region, has increasingly aligned itself with stronger anti-Castro positions, reflecting shifting political currents in Central America. The decision leaves unresolved questions about how the two nations will handle consular services, trade, and other practical matters previously managed through their embassies.