Cuba Confirms Talks with U.S. Officials

Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel confirmed that Cuban officials have engaged in discussions with the U.S. government to address bilateral differences, including the U.S. economic blockade. The announcement was made in a video broadcast on national television on Friday, March 13, 2026, amidst a severe economic crisis in Cuba. These talks aim to find solutions through dialogue, based on principles of equality and respect for political systems and sovereignty.

Díaz-Canel attributed Cuba's recent energy crisis, including a massive blackout in the western region last week, to the U.S. energy blockade. He stated that no petroleum shipments have reached the island in the past three months, despite Cuba producing 40% of its petroleum needs. The resulting power shortages have impacted communications, education, transportation, and led to the postponement of tens of thousands of surgeries.

While the Cuban government had previously not explicitly confirmed such engagements, former U.S. President Donald Trump had indicated high-level talks were underway. Unofficial reports suggested discussions involved Raúl Guillermo Rodríguez Castro, grandson of former Cuban President Raúl Castro, who was present during Díaz-Canel's broadcast. Rodríguez Castro reportedly participated in talks with U.S. officials last month during the Caricom meeting in St. Kitts and Nevis.