February 5, 2026 l By Dalena Reporters
HAVANA, Cuba — Cuba’s President Miguel Díaz-Canel said on Thursday that his government is willing to engage in dialogue with the United States, but only on terms that respect Cuban sovereignty, independence and self-determination and not under external pressure, leadership statements and news reports confirm.
In a nationally broadcast address on state television and radio, Díaz-Canel reiterated that Havana is prepared to hold discussions with the United States “on any topic,” but stressed that such talks must proceed without compulsion or preconditions. He said that Cuba insists on equality and mutual respect if engagement is to be productive and legitimate.
The remarks come amid heightened tensions between the two nations, following repeated statements by U.S. President Donald Trump in recent months threatening to cut off Cuba’s access to oil and increase economic pressure. Trump has said Cuba was “ready to fall” and has vowed to intensify sanctions, part of a broader U.S. posture toward US-sanctioned governments in the region.
Cuba’s economy already strained by longstanding sanctions, rising food and medicine shortages and other structural challenges has seen outages in electricity and other essential services in recent weeks, prompting public concern. Officials and analysts point to a combination of external economic pressure and internal economic difficulties as contributing factors to the crisis.
The Cuban leader’s announcement highlights Havana’s diplomatic position that engagement with Washington is possible, but only if conducted in a manner that Cuba deems respectful of its national sovereignty. It is unclear when or where such talks might take place, or what specific issues they would address, should both sides agree to a formal diplomatic process.
Observers say Cuba’s message reflects a delicate balance between seeking relief from economic strain and resisting approaches it views as coercive a stance that could shape future bilateral interactions if diplomatic avenues are pursued.