US Offers Talks with Cuba if Government Changes
Secretary of State Marco Rubio says Washington is ready to engage if Havana pursues a political transition.
Key points
- US Secretary of State Marco Rubio says Washington is open to talks if Cuba changes its government.
- Cuban officials deny any negotiations are occurring and describe the US blockade as genocidal.
- Havana claims the US embargo cost the Cuban economy $8bn between March 2025 and February 2026.
The United States stated on Wednesday in New York that it is open to talks with Cuba. This offer is conditional on Havana changing its government leadership.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio made the remarks after President Donald Trump called the island a failed state at the UN. The Cuban delegation subsequently walked out of the assembly.
Washington proposes economic support for transition
Rubio described the situation as a golden opportunity for a better future. He said the US is prepared to be helpful if Cuba is open to it.
According to Al Jazeera English, Rubio said US businesses are ready to step in. This support depends on progress in political reforms.
He noted that Washington is willing to work with certain Cuban leaders. He specified those whose hands are not stained with blood.
Havana denies ongoing negotiations with US
Cuban officials have denied that any talks are currently happening. They maintain that the US seeks to remove their government.
Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez recently called the US embargo a policy of economic asphyxiation. He described the blockade as genocidal.
International criticism targets US economic pressure
The Cuban government says the embargo cost its economy $8bn. This is the highest figure recorded between March 2025 and February 2026.
Brazilian President Lula da Silva criticized the US blockade at the UN. He said 10 million people face collective punishment.
