On January 12, Miguel Díaz-Canel firmly dismissed claims of ongoing official discussions with the United States administration.
The Cuban leader's statement comes amid a wave of reactions following recent comments by former President Donald Trump, who on Sunday night suggested that some form of dialogue with Cuba was underway, though he did not specify the nature or extent of such communications.
On Monday morning, Díaz-Canel took to social media to deliver a straightforward message. "There are no talks with the U.S. government except for technical contacts in the migration sphere," he declared, without directly addressing Trump's earlier remarks.
"We have always been open to engaging in serious and responsible dialogue with successive U.S. governments, including the current one, based on principles of sovereign equality, mutual respect, international law, reciprocal benefit, with no interference in internal matters, and full respect for our independence," he added.
Díaz-Canel also criticized the economic embargo imposed by the United States, accusing Florida politicians of betraying Cuban migrants. "The origin and extreme tightening of the blockade have nothing to do with Cubans residing in the U.S., who were driven there by this failed policy and the privileges of the Cuban Adjustment Act. They are now victims of changing migration policies and the betrayal of Miami politicians," he noted.
Reaffirming Cuba's commitment to its migration agreements, he emphasized, "There are bilateral Migration Agreements in place that Cuba scrupulously honors."
He concluded by reinforcing the regime's long-standing narrative: "As history shows, U.S.-Cuba relations must be grounded in international law, rather than hostility, threats, and economic coercion, to make progress."
The Controversy: Deciphering Trump's Intentions
Díaz-Canel's comments indirectly address Trump's statements made on Sunday evening while aboard Air Force One. When asked about the type of deal he envisioned with Cuba, Trump's response was brief, enigmatic, and shrouded in anticipation.
"Cuba, you'll find out soon. We are talking with Cuba, you'll know very soon," he replied.
He did not provide further details or clarify whether the discussions pertained to political, economic, or migratory issues. Nonetheless, he made a special mention of Cuban exiles: "One group I want to ensure is taken care of are those who came from Cuba and were forced to leave or abandoned under pressure, and who are now great citizens of the United States."
He insisted, "There are many people who were unjustly forced out of Cuba, so we are focusing on the most crucial issues right now. We will take care of those who came from Cuba, who are U.S. citizens."
Understanding U.S.-Cuba Relations and Recent Developments
Are there ongoing official talks between the U.S. and Cuba?
According to Díaz-Canel, there are no ongoing official talks with the U.S., except for technical contacts in the migration area.
What was Trump's statement regarding Cuba?
Trump suggested that discussions with Cuba were happening, but did not specify their nature or details. He emphasized support for Cuban exiles in the U.S.
What does Díaz-Canel accuse Florida politicians of?
Díaz-Canel accuses Florida politicians of betraying Cuban migrants by supporting policies he believes negatively impact them.