A high-ranking United States delegation has held talks with Cuban officials in Havana as President Donald Trump ramps up pressure on the island nation to implement broad reforms amid its deepening economic crisis.
The visit marks one of the most significant US engagements with Cuba in nearly a decade and comes as Washington tightens economic restrictions, including fuel supply limits, while also hinting at potential military options.
US officials said the delegation warned Cuban authorities that time is running out to adopt key reforms backed by Washington before the country’s situation worsens further.
Notably, the trip represents the first instance in years that a US government aircraft has landed in Cuba outside the Guantanamo Bay, following earlier diplomatic efforts during the 2016 rapprochement.
During the discussions, the US team pushed for sweeping economic and political changes, including boosting private-sector growth, attracting foreign investment, and improving competitiveness. Proposals such as introducing Starlink internet services and resolving compensation claims for seized American assets were also raised.
Human rights issues featured prominently, with calls for the release of political prisoners and expanded political freedoms. The US also voiced concerns over alleged foreign military and intelligence activities on the island, located less than 100 miles from American shores.
A State Department official revealed that a senior envoy separately met with a relative of former Cuban leader Raúl Castro during the visit.
Cuban authorities confirmed the talks, describing them as “respectful and professional,” but emphasized that lifting what they term an “energy blockade” remains a top priority.
The mounting economic pressure has worsened living conditions across Cuba, with widespread shortages and fuel constraints. Meanwhile, Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel has firmly rejected US pressure, warning against any military intervention and reaffirming the country’s political stance.
Tensions between Washington and Havana continue to rise as diplomatic engagement unfolds alongside increasing coercive measures.