Cuba Confirms Talks with US Amid Energy Crisis

Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel confirmed Friday that his government has engaged in recent talks with the United States to address longstanding bilateral differences, marking the first official acknowledgment from Havana of such discussions. Speaking during a national television broadcast and press conference in Havana, Díaz-Canel described the exchanges as aimed at finding solutions through dialogue, emphasizing principles of equality, respect for each nation's political systems, and Cuba's sovereignty and self-determination.

The announcement comes amid a deepening energy crisis on the island, which Díaz-Canel attributed to a U.S. blockade that has prevented petroleum shipments from arriving for the past three months. Cuba produces about 40 percent of its own petroleum needs but has struggled to generate sufficient power to meet demand. Last week, a massive blackout struck the western region, leaving millions without electricity and disrupting daily life. The shortages have hampered communications, education, and transportation, forcing the postponement of surgeries for tens of thousands of people. "The impact is tremendous," Díaz-Canel said.