High-Level US Delegation Visits Cuba Amid Rising Tensions

Havana. As the Donald Trump administration increases pressure on Cuba, a high-level US delegation recently visited the country to hold talks with government officials. This is considered one of the most significant US visits in nearly a decade, occurring amidst ongoing economic pressure and warnings of potential military action against Cuba.

According to a US State Department official, the delegation urged Cuba to implement US-backed economic and political reforms, warning that time is running out. These reforms include opening the economy, developing the private sector, and attracting foreign investment. This marks the first time a US government aircraft has landed in Cuba since former President Barack Obama's historic visit in 2016, making the trip highly significant.

The discussions reportedly included proposals to introduce satellite internet services from Elon Musk's SpaceX, compensation for assets seized from US citizens and companies, the release of political prisoners, and the expansion of civil liberties. The official declined to provide details on the delegation members but noted that a senior State Department official held a separate meeting with the grandson of former Cuban President Raul Castro.

A top Cuban official confirmed on Monday that meetings between the Cuban and US delegations took place on the island recently. Speaking to state media, Cuban Ambassador to the US, Alejandro Garcia del Toro, described the meetings as respectful and professional.

He stated that lifting the energy blockade against Cuba was a top priority for the Cuban delegation. Emphasizing that the Cuban people must be allowed to survive, he noted that the Trump administration had sanctioned a Russian-flagged oil tanker bound for Cuba at the end of March. Trump has repeatedly suggested that the US military could take action in Cuba similar to its approach in Venezuela.