U.S. President Donald Trump has signaled a potential shift in policy toward Cuba, indicating that Washington has opened dialogue with Cuban authorities and that ongoing talks could lead to a bilateral agreement.
Speaking to reporters, Trump confirmed that senior-level discussions are taking place, expressing optimism about their outcome.
“We are talking with the Cubans, senior officials in Cuba. We will see what happens, but I think we will reach a deal with Cuba,” Trump said.
Shift After Escalating Pressure
The announcement follows a period of heightened tensions between Washington and Havana, during which Trump repeatedly threatened the Cuban government, particularly after the U.S. military intervention in Venezuela, Cuba’s key regional ally.
Earlier this year, the U.S. administration halted Venezuelan oil shipments to Cuba, following the arrest of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro in early January.
New Economic Measures on the Table
Last Thursday, Trump signed an executive order authorizing Washington to impose tariffs—of unspecified amounts—on countries supplying oil to Havana, arguing that Cuba poses a threat to U.S. national security.
Despite these measures, the opening of direct talks suggests a possible recalibration of U.S. strategy, blending economic pressure with diplomatic engagement.
