Luis Fernandez, a spokesman for the Cuban Interests Section in Washington, would not comment on the arrests.

Head of the Cuban Interests Section in Washington, D.C. from 1995-2001.

An attempt to get a reaction to Contreras's assertions from members of the Cuban Interests Section in Washington was unsuccessful.

He previously served as deputy chief of the Cuban Interests Section in Washington, DC.

"This is not the end of the world," said Ariel Ricardo, spokesman for the Cuban Interests Section.

The Cuban Interests Section in Washington, in a statement, denied the allegations.

The expanded order would effectively bar Elian from visiting the homes or offices of diplomats assigned to the Cuban Interests Section here.

Representatives of the Cuban Interests Section in Washington did not return calls for comment.

Please verify this information with the Cuban Interests Section in Washington before traveling.

Questions about this requirement should be directed to the Cuban Interests Section.