Miguel Díaz-Canel says that discussions are being held to find solutions “through dialogue” while Washington tightens the oil blockade.
Published on March 13, 2026
Cuban officials have held talks with the US government to seek solutions to the crippling blockade imposed by Washington, President Miguel Díaz-Canel said, as threats from the Trump administration to take over the Caribbean nation increase.
“These conversations have aimed to find solutions through dialogue to the bilateral differences we have between the two nations,” Díaz-Canel said in a video broadcast on national television on Friday.
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Díaz-Canel stated that “international factors have facilitated these exchanges.”
He said no oil shipments have arrived to the island in the last three months, which he attributed to the United States energy blockade.
Critical oil shipments from Venezuela were halted after the United States attacked the South American country and kidnapped President Nicolás Maduro.
The western region of Cuba was hit by a massive blackout last week, leaving millions of people without electricity.
The talks come days after President Donald Trump issued his latest threat to Cuba, saying the White House’s plans for the Caribbean nation may include a “friendly takeover.”
‘Tremendous impact’
Díaz-Canel added that Cuba, which produces 40 percent of its oil, has been generating its own energy but that it has not been enough to meet demand.
He said the lack of power has affected communications, education and transportation and that, as a result, the government has had to postpone surgeries for tens of thousands of people.
“The impact is tremendous,” he said.
The president added that the objective was “to determine the willingness of both parties to take concrete actions for the benefit of the people of both countries.”
“And also, identify areas of cooperation to confront threats and guarantee the security and peace of both nations, as well as in the region,” he said.
For decades, severe U.S. economic sanctions on Cuba have crippled its economy and isolated it from global trade. In response, Cuba has relied on oil supplies from foreign allies, including Mexico, Russia and Venezuela.
