Diaz-Canel rejects Trump’s threats, emphasising Cuba’s independence and commitment to defending its sovereignty.
Published On 12 Jan 2026
Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel firmly rejected recent threats from US President Donald Trump following the attack on Venezuela. He stated there are currently no negotiations between Havana and Washington.
Diaz-Canel clarified on social media Monday that while routine coordination on immigration continues,no broader talks are underway. He emphasized Cuba’s willingness to engage in “serious and responsible dialogue” with any US management, based on sovereign equality, mutual respect, and international law.
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He insists relations must be founded on international law,not “hostility,threats,and economic coercion.”
Trump announced the possibility of increased pressure on Cuba after the US-involved incident in Venezuela on January 3, which resulted in at least 100 deaths, including 32 Cuban security personnel stationed there for cooperation. He also stated that Venezuelan oil shipments to Cuba would cease and demanded a “deal” from Havana.
Diaz-Canel responded swiftly, declaring Cuba a “free, autonomous, and sovereign” nation, vowing to defend its sovereignty “to the last drop of blood.”
Venezuelan oil has been a crucial economic resource for Cuba, providing approximately 35,000 barrels daily before the recent events. Cuba also receives roughly 5,500 barrels per day from Mexico and 7,500 from Russia, according to energy analyst Jorge pinon.
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum acknowledged the increased importance of Mexican oil to Cuba following the Venezuela incident, but confirmed Mexico hasn’t increased its oil sales to Havana. Sheinbaum recently reaffirmed Mexico’s sovereignty in response to Trump’s threats of military action against criminal groups within Mexico.
Sheinbaum reported a “very good conversation” with Trump on Monday, discussing cooperation on commerce, security, and drug trafficking, “with respect to our sovereignties.” She concluded, “Collaboration and cooperation within a framework of mutual respect always yield results.”
