[fintstone]

Trading spies and murderers for a private US citizen held hostage really was not a good deal. Adding a huge infusion of cash to the Communist government as a sweetener was even more over the top.

Cuba is a state sponsor of terrorism. They have been arming terrorists/troops throughout Latin America and Africa for decades and provide arms to North Korea despite international embargo/sanctions. It is not that long since they shot down multiple US registered aircraft over international waters, killing citizens.

Contrary to the picture painted by those who vacation in Cuba, these are really bad guys.