Overview
- Both governments now acknowledge direct negotiations, with Havana granting Vatican-brokered prisoner releases and unveiling new rights for diaspora investment and company ownership.
- Trump escalated his language by saying he believes he will “have the honor of taking” Cuba, following U.S. measures that have halted Venezuelan oil shipments and tightened economic pressure.
- After a nationwide blackout, Cuba’s utility reported phased restoration, with power back to about 45% of Havana by midday Tuesday and service extending across more than two-thirds of the country.
- Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the diaspora investment measures are far from sufficient and argued that Cuba must undertake radical changes to address its failing economy.
- The New York Times reported U.S. negotiators pushed for President Miguel Díaz‑Canel’s removal; Rubio later called that report false, while a Cuban diplomat said political questions will never be part of the talks.