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Cuban Deputy Foreign Minister Carlos R. Fernández de Cossío has categorically denied reports regarding high-level negotiations, labeling the rumors as “smokescreen.”
The Cuban government is not engaged in any high-level dialogue with the Donald Trump administration, not even at an intermediate level.
This was stated by Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Carlos R. Fernández de Cossío, in an interview with the Mexican newspaper La Jornada, in which he dismissed outright the circulating claims about supposed informal conversations between family members of key figures on the island and Washington aimed at negotiating a political transition.
“There is no high-level dialogue between the governments of the United States and Cuba. Not even at an intermediate level,” the official asserted, who also referred to the rumors as “gossip” and a “smokescreen,” suggesting they aim to distract attention from the “criminal and inhumane energy stranglehold” imposed by the White House.
Below are the main themes discussed in the interview, formatted as assertions and responses:
1. Bilateral Dialogue: Absolute Denial of Understanding
No high-level conversations.
“There are not even any discussions at the intermediate level. Until a year ago, we had regular meetings with the State Department. That no longer exists.”
False claims about family members negotiating a transition.
“These are rumors. It is not true that there are talks involving family members of anyone representing the Cuban government with the United States for dialogue.”
Mexico is not acting as a bridge for any political negotiations.
“Mexico is not playing such a role. It supports Cuba, which in itself is a bridge, but not in the manner suggested.”
2. Blockade and Responsibility of the United States
It is “cynical and deceitful” to blame Cuba for the consequences of the blockade.
“The oppressor blames the slave. This conduct is the same: behind this accusation lies a tremendous lie.”
The measure from January 29 is a global aggression.
“The United States threatens any country that exports fuel to Cuba with sanctions. This not only harms the island but also compromises the sovereignty of other nations.”
International indifference similar to what is seen in Gaza.
“What is happening today in Cuba could happen to any country. There is no limit. The world watches with indifference.”
3. Humanitarian Impact of the Energy Stranglehold
The blockade affects basic services and puts lives at risk.
“Without fuel, there is no food distribution, no water supply, no electricity for ICU rooms, surgeries, or hemodialysis. Ambulances don’t function, and teachers and doctors can’t get to work.”
The damage is deliberate and ongoing.
“A lot has been harmed to the Cuban people, and they can be harmed more. The intention is to prevent Cuba from prospering due to having had a revolution.”
4. Possibility of Dialogue and Conditions
Cuba is open to dialogue, but with respect.
“It is possible to dialogue with the Trump government, but there must be real willingness, respect for sovereignty, and a departure from the fictions of the anti-Cuban lobby.”
No mediator is needed; political will is essential.
“We have embassies in both capitals. The channel exists. What is lacking is serious willingness from the United States.”
The Vatican or other countries can facilitate, but not replace will.
“If there is will, various nations can help. But it is not much to ask: nothing that Cuba proposes is irrational.”
5. Origin and Nature of American Hostility
67 years of hostility due to the very act of the Revolution.
“There is a political notion entrenched: Cuba must not prosper because it underwent a revolution. That they can’t change.”
The anti-Cuban lobby profits from this hostility.
“A well-connected political class has made a business and a career out of confrontation with Cuba.”
Rumors about Marco Rubio as a possible source.
“It could be, we do not discount it. But they serve as a smokescreen to avoid discussing the crimes committed against the Cuban people.”
6. Resistance and Continuity of the Socialist Project
The blockade will not achieve its goal.
“They will not reach the target they have proposed. This country has maintained a socialist revolution for 67 years aimed at humanity and social justice.”
The “Cuban miracle” is a result of an organized society.
“Everyone bears the challenges and everyone benefits. That is why we continue to stand.”