Cuban President Rejects U.S. Negotiations Amid Oil Supply Crisis

Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel stated on Monday that his government is not in discussions with the U.S., despite President Trump’s recent threats regarding Venezuela’s oil supply.

“There are no conversations with the U.S., aside from technical contacts related to immigration,” Diaz-Canel posted on X.

He accused the U.S. of applying hostile pressure on Cuba and asserted that any negotiations must comply with international law.

“History tells us that progress in U.S.-Cuba relations requires a foundation of international law, rather than hostility or economic coercion.”

Díaz-Canel expressed willingness to engage in serious dialogue with various U.S. administrations based on principles of mutual respect and sovereignty, emphasizing the importance of non-interference in Cuba’s internal matters.

On Sunday, Trump announced that Cuba would no longer receive Venezuelan oil or financial support, a significant shift that threatens Havana’s energy and financial stability.

This declaration followed a bold operation on January 3, during which U.S. forces captured Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and reportedly killed numerous Cuban soldiers.

Trump made it clear: “There is no oil or money going to Cuba! We strongly recommend an agreement before it is too late.”

Cuba has traditionally depended on imported oil to sustain its aging energy infrastructure. Prior to the U.S. intervention in Venezuela, Cuba was importing around 35,000 barrels of oil per day from the country, alongside smaller quantities from Russia and Mexico, according to reports from an energy expert.

Despite these imports, Cuba has faced ongoing power outages, largely due to an outdated power grid and infrastructure issues exacerbated by recent hurricanes.

As U.S. sanctions on Russian and Venezuelan oil have intensified, the likelihood of worsening blackouts looms over Cuba, especially with the current administration’s rejection of Trump’s overtures for a deal.