Mileidy Guilarte, a former White House official during the Obama administration and now a professor at the Francisco de Vitoria University in Spain, recently stated in response to a question from CiberCuba that if she were advising Cuban leader Miguel Díaz-Canel, she would urge him to go into exile as soon as possible.
When asked what advice she would give Díaz-Canel at this juncture, Guilarte replied without hesitation: "Leave as soon as you can, definitely," suggesting destinations such as North Korea and Nicaragua.
The statement was made at the conclusion of a 45-minute interview, amid the shadowy negotiations between the Cuban regime and the Trump Administration.
The expert acknowledged being caught off guard by the question. "You've asked me something I don't believe anyone has ever asked, nor have I imagined," she remarked in response to journalist Tania Costa.
Negotiations between Cuba and the United States have reached a critical point this week, with Díaz-Canel making it clear that "if the United States does not agree to negotiate on Cuban terms, there will be no negotiation."
As reported by the American press and confirmed by both parties, a delegation from the State Department met with its Cuban counterpart in Havana on April 10, issuing a 15-day ultimatum for the release of political prisoners, including media figures like artists Luis Manuel Otero Alcántara and Maykel Osorbo.
The deadline passed on Friday, April 24, without a positive response from the Cuban regime, which further warned that political prisoners were not up for negotiation.
Analysts close to the process caution that in such situations, the reality often extends beyond public statements, suggesting that significant developments could be happening away from public scrutiny. It is precisely in this atmosphere of escalating pressure and secrecy that Guilarte's advice carries substantial political weight.
Insight into Cuba-US Relations
What advice did Mileidy Guilarte give to Miguel Díaz-Canel?
Mileidy Guilarte advised Miguel Díaz-Canel to seek exile immediately, suggesting destinations such as North Korea and Nicaragua.
What was the context of Guilarte's statement?
Guilarte's statement was made during an interview, amidst tense negotiations between the Cuban regime and the Trump Administration regarding political prisoners.
What ultimatum was issued by the U.S. to Cuba?
The U.S. issued a 15-day ultimatum for the release of political prisoners, including artists Luis Manuel Otero Alcántara and Maykel Osorbo.