Washington, February 6: The White House has dismissed concerns raised by Cuba regarding ongoing diplomatic talks, asserting that President Donald Trump is open to diplomacy and indicating that discussions have already commenced.
A reporter referenced comments made by Cuban leader Miguel Díaz-Canel, who stated that Cuba is willing to engage in talks with the U.S. “without pressure, without conditions, on an equal basis, and with respect for sovereignty.” His government has rejected Trump’s claim that negotiations are already taking place.
Press Secretary Carolyn Levitt responded with a stern warning to Havana. She remarked, “I believe the Cuban government is at its last stage, and their country is on the verge of collapse, so they should exercise caution in their statements about the President of the United States.”
Levitt reiterated Trump’s stance, stating, “As I have just reiterated, the President is always ready to engage in diplomacy.”
She further mentioned that discussions are indeed ongoing, adding, “And I believe this is something that is truly happening with the Cuban government.”
Levitt did not disclose any specifics regarding the channels or agenda of the talks. She also refrained from commenting on Díaz-Canel’s demand for “no conditions,” except to affirm that Trump supports diplomatic efforts.
This exchange occurred during a comprehensive briefing in which the White House addressed various national security issues.
The relationship between the U.S. and Cuba has been historically fraught, marked by decades of sanctions and intermittent shifts in dialogue. Diplomatic relations were formally restored in the mid-2010s, yet many restrictions remain, with policy fluctuating across different administrations.
Cuba’s ongoing economic strain and political pressures have repeatedly influenced the tone and pace of bilateral interactions, including migration-related coordination and limited diplomatic engagement.
