Díaz-Canel's Warnings in TV Interview
President Miguel Díaz-Canel declared in his first American broadcast interview that the United States has no valid reason to depose him or launch a military attack. He warned that any invasion would cost lives and disrupt regional security, stating through a translator, “If that happens, there will be fighting, and we will defend ourselves, and if we need to die, we’ll die.” Díaz-Canel emphasized Cuba's readiness to protect its revolution, quoting the national anthem to underline the resolve.
US Pressure on Cuba's Economy
Díaz-Canel accused the US government of a hostile policy that includes an economic embargo worsening Cuba's fuel shortages. Cuba produces only 40% of the fuel it consumes, leading to disruptions in the health system, public transportation, and goods production. A Russian tanker delivered 730,000 barrels of crude oil in March, the first in three months, after Venezuela stopped shipments following US actions against its leadership.
Trump's Rhetoric and Official Responses
President Donald Trump described Cuba as “finished” and suggested a possible takeover, calling its leadership “bad and corrupt.” A White House official stated that the administration is talking to Cuba and believes leaders there want a deal. Secretary of State Marco Rubio told reporters that Cuba needs “to change the people in charge,” describing the country as a “disaster” due to its economic system.
Consequences for Cuban Daily Life
The fuel crisis has exacerbated shortages, causing blackouts and inflation that affect ordinary Cubans' access to essentials. Díaz-Canel linked these hardships directly to the US embargo, calling it “genocidal and cruel” for blocking components even during the Covid pandemic. As a result, Cuba has opened opportunities for foreign investment in oil, inviting American companies to participate despite legal restrictions.
