Miguel Díaz-Canel disclosed on Thursday that he had a phone conversation with Venezuela's interim president, Delcy Rodríguez, during which he voiced his "strong condemnation" of the U.S. military intervention in Caracas and the "abduction" of Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores.
This statement, shared on social media on January 22, comes 19 days after the events of January 3, which shook the Latin American geopolitical landscape.
"I had a telephone conversation with the Acting President of #Venezuela, Delcy Rodríguez. I reiterated our strong condemnation of the #USA's military aggression and the abduction of the Constitutional President Nicolás Maduro and comrade Cilia Flores," Díaz-Canel posted on Facebook and X.
The Cuban leader also expressed Havana's support for the current Venezuelan government, continuing the longstanding bond between the two nations: "I conveyed our support and solidarity with the homeland of Bolívar and Chávez, its people, and the Bolivarian government, as well as the decision to continue strengthening the historic ties of brotherhood and cooperation," he added.
However, Díaz-Canel did not mention what Rodríguez might have said in response.
A Call with Unclear Timing
The Cuban leader did not specify the exact date of the telephone exchange. Nonetheless, according to Delcy Rodríguez, the conversation occurred the day before her participation in the first Federal Government Council of 2026, held earlier this week, indicating that Díaz-Canel's public message was significantly delayed.
During the Federal Government Council, Rodríguez shared some details of her initial official contact with Díaz-Canel. "Yesterday, I spoke with the president of Cuba, Miguel Díaz-Canel Bermúdez, and the first thing he conveyed to me was heartfelt condolences for the Venezuelan people, families, and friends of our heroes and heroines who died in combat on January 3," she stated.
Two Narratives from One Conversation
While the communication appeared cordial, the Venezuelan leader did not publicly confirm any of Díaz-Canel's political points, such as strengthening bilateral relations or a shared cooperation agenda. Delcy's message, broadcast by Telesur, focused more on Latin American unity and shared mourning.
"I appreciate the call because knowing we are united in the just causes of Latin America encourages us. It boosts our esteem as Venezuelans," Delcy remarked.
These statements, along with Rodríguez's recent meetings with U.S. officials, including the CIA director, have fueled speculation about a strategic shift in Venezuela's foreign policy that could impact its relationship with Cuba.
Social Media Reactions and Skepticism
Díaz-Canel's announcement has triggered a wave of comments on social media, many of them mocking or questioning the purpose and outcome of the call. The hashtag #CubaConVenezuela was used by several users, while others expressed doubts about the sincerity or usefulness of the dialogue given Cuba's severe internal energy and political crisis.
"I spoke. I reiterated. I expressed. That's a monologue, Migue, are you sure she didn't hang up on you?" quipped one user.
"He called because she left him on read on WhatsApp," joked another.
Sharper criticism came from those accusing Delcy Rodríguez of betraying Maduro and collaborating with the United States. "Did Delcy tell you about her alliance with Trump? Troy is about to burn," another commented.
The conversation between Díaz-Canel and Rodríguez, rather than uniting around a common strategy, seems to reflect a situation marked by uncertainties. As Cuba reaffirms its "unconditional" support narrative, Venezuela explores new diplomatic and political avenues with the United States. Nineteen days after Maduro's downfall, the call appears more like an attempt to restore the narrative of brotherhood than a confirmation of continued unity in action.
Amid tributes to fallen Cubans, an internal energy crisis, and a region in flux, the key question remains unanswered: What did Delcy Rodríguez say in response to all this?
As many on social media point out, "a conversation is measured by what is said... and what is left unsaid."
Insight into the Díaz-Canel and Delcy Rodríguez Dialogue
What did Miguel Díaz-Canel discuss with Delcy Rodríguez?
Díaz-Canel expressed his strong disapproval of the U.S. military's actions in Caracas and the abduction of Nicolás Maduro and Cilia Flores. He also reiterated Cuba's support for the Venezuelan government.
What was Delcy Rodríguez's response to Díaz-Canel's remarks?
Delcy Rodríguez highlighted the solidarity and unity between the two nations, expressing gratitude for the condolences extended by Díaz-Canel. However, she did not publicly confirm any of the political points raised by Díaz-Canel.
How has the conversation between Díaz-Canel and Rodríguez been received publicly?
The conversation has been met with skepticism and humor on social media, with many questioning the sincerity and timing of the call. Some users have mocked the nature of the dialogue, while others have raised concerns about potential shifts in Venezuela's foreign policy.