The Cuban leader, Miguel Díaz-Canel, announced on Thursday that Cuba is open to engaging in discussions with the United States on any topic. The aim is to establish a "civilized" and "mutually beneficial" relationship between the two nations.
In a rare televised address, Díaz-Canel clarified that the Cuban government would be willing to engage in talks with Washington "without prior pressures or conditions." However, this willingness comes with the stipulation that Cuba's sovereignty and self-determination must be respected, and that no issues perceived by Havana as interference in its internal affairs will be discussed.
"Cuba is a nation of peace. It poses no threat to the United States," Díaz-Canel declared, emphasizing that any dialogue should be founded on mutual respect and aimed at the welfare of both populations.
He further noted that while Cuba is "not in a state of war," it has updated and approved defense plans "as part of preparedness measures," without suggesting a military situation.
The Cuban leader expressed readiness to discuss with Washington various topics, including immigration, security, anti-narcotics and terrorism efforts, environmental issues, and scientific cooperation.
Díaz-Canel's statements come amid heightened tensions with the United States, following President Donald Trump's recent moves to tighten policies against the Cuban regime and tie any rapprochement to verifiable democratic progress on the island.
During his address, Díaz-Canel also revealed that the regime is preparing for a "severe fuel shortage" due to U.S. pressures. "We are going to face tough times. These are particularly challenging," he admitted to a handpicked group of journalists, whose questions seemed to follow a scripted narrative.
Understanding Cuba-U.S. Relations
What conditions has Díaz-Canel set for dialogue with the U.S.?
Díaz-Canel has stated that any talks must respect Cuba's sovereignty and self-determination, without addressing issues that Havana considers interference in internal affairs.
What topics is Cuba willing to discuss with the United States?
Cuba is open to discussing immigration, security, counter-narcotics and terrorism, environmental concerns, and scientific cooperation.
How has the U.S. recently affected Cuba's situation?
Recent U.S. actions under President Trump have tightened policies against Cuba, tying any engagement to measurable democratic progress, and have led to pressures resulting in a potential fuel shortage on the island.