Overview
- Ratcliffe met Thursday in Havana with Raulito Rodríguez Castro, Interior Minister Lázaro Álvarez Casas, and the intelligence chief to deliver Trump’s message that U.S. engagement depends on “fundamental changes.”
- Cuba told the delegation it is not a U.S. security threat, rejected its terror‑sponsor label, and said it is weighing a $100 million U.S. aid offer to be routed through churches and independent groups.
- The visit came as Cuba’s energy minister said the island has no fuel oil or diesel, triggering rolling blackouts lasting up to 20–24 hours, street protests, and strains on hospitals and food supplies.
- Washington is pairing tighter sanctions and threats against fuel suppliers with an offer of humanitarian aid and satellite internet while warning Cuba cannot remain a haven for U.S. adversaries.
- Talks continue without a deal, with U.S. officials saying the opening will not last and Axios reporting Secretary of State Marco Rubio has led secret contacts with Cuban power brokers.