The US held talks with Cuba in Havana for the first time in a decade
Representatives from the US State Department held talks with Cuban officials in Havana. Among those attending the meetings was Raúl Guillermo Rodríguez Castro, the grandson of Raúl Castro, according to Axios.
The American delegation urged the Cuban side to expand political and economic freedoms and warned of the consequences should no changes be made. Assistance was also offered to restore internet connectivity through the deployment of the Starlink satellite system.
The meeting took place last Friday and marked the first time in a decade that a US government aircraft had landed in Cuba since Barack Obama’s visit.
According to a State Department official, several meetings took place. He confirmed the participation of Raúl Guillermo Rodríguez Castro, whom the US regards as Raúl Castro’s informal representative.
The American side emphasised that Cuba’s economy is in a difficult state, and the country’s leadership has limited time to implement reforms supported by the US.
During the talks, the possibility of lifting the embargo was also discussed, subject to the fulfilment of a number of requirements. These include compensation to US citizens and companies for property seized after the 1959 revolution, the release of political prisoners and the expansion of political rights, including the holding of free elections.
Separately, US officials expressed concern regarding the activities of foreign intelligence, military and terrorist organisations on Cuban territory with the authorities’ permission.
Washington also made it clear that the Donald Trump administration is seeking a diplomatic resolution but will not allow a situation to develop that would pose a threat to national security.
