Cuba Declares No Formal Talks With United States President Miguel Díaz‑Canel posted on X that there are no current talks with the U.S. government beyond technical migration contacts, insisting any dialogue must respect sovereign equality and international law [1][2]. He framed the island’s stance as a response to heightened tensions following the U.S. attack on Venezuela [1][2]. The declaration underscores Havana’s refusal to engage under what it calls hostile or coercive conditions [1][2].

Cuba Signals Conditional Openness to Dialogue Díaz‑Canel added that Cuba remains willing to pursue serious dialogue if it is grounded in mutual respect, independence, and legal norms, but no negotiations are underway [1][2]. He emphasized that future talks must avoid economic coercion or threats [1][2]. This nuanced position signals a potential diplomatic opening while maintaining firm preconditions [2].

Trump Pressures Havana With Oil and Financial Threats Former President Donald Trump warned Havana on Truth Social to “strike a deal before it is too late,” threatening to halt oil shipments and financial flows to Cuba [1][2]. The pressure campaign is linked to Washington’s recent military action against Venezuela and aims to alter Cuba’s alliance with Caracas [1][2]. The administration describes the strategy as part of a broader “Donroe Doctrine” to protect U.S. interests in the Western Hemisphere [2].

Energy Shortages and Sanctions Deepen Cuba’s Crises Prior to the attack, Cuba imported roughly 35,000 bpd from Venezuela, 5,500 bpd from Mexico, and 7,500 bpd from Russia [1]. Despite these deliveries, widespread blackouts persist, highlighting ongoing fuel shortages and a deteriorating power grid [1]. U.S. sanctions have cost the Cuban economy more than $7.5 billion between March 2024 and February 2025 [1]. China has called on the United States to lift the blockade and end interference, urging regional peace and stability [2].