The Cuban government might be open to the idea of compensating American citizens and companies for properties seized following the 1959 Revolution, as part of ongoing discussions with the United States.
This information emerged from an exclusive interview conducted in Havana by journalists Ryan Grim and José Luis Granados Ceja, published by Drop Site News, following a meeting with Deputy Foreign Minister Carlos Fernández de Cossío over the weekend.
During the interview, the official expressed Cuba's willingness to discuss a "lump-sum" compensation plan. Under this proposal, Cuba would pay a set amount to the U.S. government, which would then manage individual claims.
Additionally, the media outlet reported that the full video of the interview would be released in the coming days.
Broader Negotiations Required
Fernández de Cossío emphasized that any agreement of this nature would need to be part of a broader understanding that includes other issues being negotiated between the two nations.
According to data referenced in the report, there are approximately 6,000 certified claims for nationalized properties in Cuba, valued at several billion dollars.
Cuban Claims and Historical Context
The deputy minister also noted that Cuba insists any negotiation should also address Cuban claims for damages attributed to U.S. policies over the decades. He recalled that after the Revolution, Cuba reached compensation agreements with several countries, including Canada, Spain, France, and the United Kingdom, but not with the United States.
He pointed out that Cuba's current ability to make large payments is constrained, meaning any potential deal would hinge on changes in the economic landscape.
Political Tensions and Economic Challenges
The interview occurs amid talks between the two governments, set against a backdrop of political tension and economic difficulties on the island. In this context, former President Donald Trump's administration reportedly prepared a plan to push for regime change in Cuba, as part of a strategy involving economic pressure, legal maneuvers, and political contacts, according to a report by The Atlantic.
The publication, citing U.S. officials and sources with direct knowledge of the discussions, claims that the groundwork for a transition on the island is already in place and could be activated at any moment.
Key Aspects of Cuba-U.S. Negotiations
What is the proposed compensation plan by Cuba?
Cuba is considering a "lump-sum" compensation plan where the country would pay the U.S. government, which would then handle individual claims.
How many certified claims are there for nationalized properties in Cuba?
There are about 6,000 certified claims for nationalized properties in Cuba, valued at billions of dollars.
Has Cuba compensated other countries for seized properties?
Yes, after the Revolution, Cuba reached compensation agreements with countries like Canada, Spain, France, and the United Kingdom.