by Douglas Jones
Cuba’s President has firmly dismissed claims that Havana is engaged in negotiations with the United States, insisting that there are no diplomatic talks with Washington following recent threats by former U.S. President .
Díaz-Canel said assertions by Trump that Cuba was seeking a deal with the United States were false and misleading. According to him, contacts between both countries are limited strictly to technical and operational matters, such as migration issues, and do not amount to political or diplomatic negotiations.
The Cuban leader stressed that his government would not be drawn into dialogue under pressure or intimidation, noting that any future engagement must be based on mutual respect, equality, and non-interference in internal affairs. He reaffirmed Cuba’s sovereignty, saying the country would not accept ultimatums from any foreign power.
Trump had earlier warned Cuba to “make a deal” with the United States or face serious consequences, including moves aimed at cutting off oil and financial support linked to Venezuela — a key lifeline for the Cuban economy. The statement has heightened tensions between both countries and revived long-standing hostilities in U.S.–Cuba relations.
Cuba, however, described the threats as part of a long history of coercion and sanctions, arguing that such measures have failed to force political change on the island. Díaz-Canel maintained that Cuba remains open to dialogue, but only under conditions that respect international law and the nation’s independence.
The latest exchange underscores a renewed strain in relations between Havana and Washington, with analysts warning that escalating rhetoric could further complicate regional stability in the Americas.