As Donald Trump prepares to take office as the President of the United States, the Cuban government has expressed a desire to establish a "serious and respectful" relationship with him. Carlos Fernández de Cossío, the Director General for the United States at the Cuban Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MINREX), highlighted the government's intent to engage in dialogue with Trump's administration while emphasizing the importance of respecting the sovereign interests of both nations.
"We will be observing the approach taken by the new administration, but Cuba's stance remains consistent with what it has been for the past 64 years. We are ready to build a relationship with the United States that is serious, respectful, and protective of the sovereign interests of both countries," Fernández de Cossío stated.
The vice minister also reassured that Cuba would not halt the existing collaborations between the two nations. "Cuba will not be the one to propose or initiate the suspension of existing dialogues or cooperation, not even in the case of sensitive topics," he clarified.
His remarks come as the 10th anniversary of the announcement of rapprochement between Havana and Washington is marked, which led to the restoration of diplomatic relations in 2015. The thaw initiated by Raúl Castro and Barack Obama was halted by Trump, who imposed stringent economic sanctions on Cuba.
The potential return of Donald Trump to the White House on January 20 is a major concern for the regime, as a tightening of his policies toward Cuba could have disastrous consequences for the Island, which is on the brink of collapse. Fernández de Cossío underscored the anxiety over "the impact this could have on our economy, and particularly, on the living standards of the population, given the proven destructive power of a more hostile U.S."
Nevertheless, the vice minister tempered his remarks by asserting, "We are going to be able to survive another four years of Trump," aligning with the sentiment of leader Díaz-Canel, who recently stated that the country is prepared for another term under Trump "with calmness and without fear, but remaining vigilant."
In the United States, many believe that Díaz-Canel's government won't withstand another four years of Trump. Cuban-American Congressman Mario Díaz-Balart stated that Donald Trump will end the "weak and faltering" dictatorships in Cuba, Venezuela, and Nicaragua.
"With four more years of Trump in the White House and the team he has assembled for foreign policy and national security, I am confident these regimes will face significant challenges in remaining in power," he emphasized.
Political analyst Juan Antonio Blanco, president of the organization Cuba Siglo 21, also suggests that Trump might implement more restrictive measures against the regime aimed at suffocating the Island's economy and strengthening internal opposition.
Potential measures could include increased commercial and financial restrictions, further limitations on U.S. citizens visiting the Island, blocking remittances from the United States, revoking permits and agreements for cooperation and business, and restricting the flow of fuel, among others.
Potential Impact of Trump's Policies on Cuba
How might Trump's return to office affect Cuba?
If Donald Trump returns to office, his administration could impose stricter sanctions on Cuba, potentially worsening the economic situation on the Island and impacting the living standards of its people.
What stance does Cuba have towards Trump's administration?
The Cuban government has expressed a willingness to engage in a serious and respectful relationship with Trump's administration, while prioritizing the protection of sovereign interests.
What are some of the potential measures Trump could take against Cuba?
Trump could implement measures such as increasing trade and financial restrictions, limiting U.S. travel to Cuba, blocking remittances, revoking cooperation agreements, and restricting fuel supplies to the Island.