Cuba Confirms Talks with US Officials, Seeks End to Energy Blockade

Cuba has confirmed that it recently held talks in Havana with officials from the United States, focusing on the ongoing US energy blockade against the island.

The discussions took place amid heightened tensions and economic challenges faced by Cuba.

The Cuban delegation included representatives at the level of deputy foreign minister, while the US side was composed of assistant secretaries of state.

According to Cuban Foreign Ministry official Alejandro Garcia del Toro, the talks were conducted respectfully and professionally, without threats or deadlines.

Cuba emphasized that ending the three-month-old US oil blockade is a top priority.

The blockade has contributed to a severe economic and energy crisis on the island, which Cuban officials describe as a form of economic coercion and global blackmail against sovereign states that export fuel to Cuba.

The US administration under President Donald Trump implemented the blockade as part of a broader pressure campaign following the overthrow of Venezuela's socialist president, a key ally of Cuba.

The blockade has intensified economic hardship and raised concerns about a potential humanitarian disaster.

Reports indicate that US officials laid out several conditions for continuing negotiations, including the release of prominent political prisoners, an end to political repression, and economic liberalization in Cuba.

Other proposals reportedly include allowing internet terminals from a private company and compensation for US assets confiscated after the 1959 revolution.

The meetings marked the first time American diplomats have flown into Cuba since 2016 as part of a renewed diplomatic effort.

The Cuban government has accused the US of blackmailing countries that export oil to Cuba by threatening tariffs.

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