President Donald Trump announced on Monday that his administration is engaged in discussions with Cuban leaders, stating that both sides are "very close" to finalizing an energy agreement that could potentially end the oil embargo imposed by Washington.
"Cuba is a failed nation. They no longer receive funds from Venezuela or anywhere else. Mexico will cease sending them oil," Trump remarked, highlighting the dire situation faced by the Cuban regime.
The President expressed his desire to assist those who fled Cuba, enduring perilous journeys on rafts through shark-infested waters. "Many would like to return, at least to visit their relatives. I believe we're quite close to achieving that. We're currently negotiating directly with Cuban leaders," he stated.
These comments confirm active communication with Havana, though the White House has not disclosed specifics about the potential content or terms of the negotiation.
On Sunday, Trump had already signaled his willingness to reach a "deal with Cuba" that would benefit both the Cuban people and Americans, emphasizing that any engagement would be approached "from a position of strength."
Amid a diplomatic standoff, the new statements follow a recent executive order from the White House imposing tariffs on countries supplying oil to Cuba, primarily targeting Mexico and Venezuela.
Nevertheless, Trump hinted that lifting the energy embargo might be part of a broader negotiation to "usher in a new era" in bilateral relations.
Insight into U.S.-Cuba Negotiations
What is the current status of U.S.-Cuba negotiations?
The U.S. and Cuban governments are reportedly very close to finalizing an energy deal that could end the oil embargo imposed by Washington.
Why is the U.S. imposing tariffs on countries supplying oil to Cuba?
The tariffs are part of an executive order aimed at countries like Mexico and Venezuela, which supply oil to Cuba, in an effort to increase diplomatic pressure on the Cuban regime.
How does President Trump view the current situation in Cuba?
President Trump describes Cuba as a "failed nation" lacking oil and financial resources, and he expresses a desire to assist the Cuban people rather than the regime.