Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum announced on Wednesday that her administration is in discussions about potentially mediating dialogue between the United States and Cuba, amid the current political climate in the region.
In her morning briefing, Sheinbaum emphasized that the initiative's success hinges not just on Mexico but also on the willingness of both the Cuban and U.S. governments. "We are having talks to see if it's feasible, but it depends on the two governments, not just on Mexico's willingness. It requires the willingness of the Cuban government and the U.S. government as well," she stated.
She further noted that the conditions set by the Cuban government within the framework of their self-determination play a crucial role.
Sheinbaum reiterated that Mexico's foreign policy is guided by the principles of non-intervention and the self-determination of peoples, as enshrined in the Constitution. "Only Cubans can decide who governs Cuba," she asserted, advocating for peaceful conflict resolution as the path to any international understanding.
Regarding aid to the island, Sheinbaum confirmed that Mexico will continue to provide humanitarian assistance and support citizen initiatives. She highlighted ongoing "people-to-people" solidarity actions, such as a collection campaign held in Mexico City's Zócalo to support shipments returning to Cuba by sea.
She also mentioned Spain's interest in joining these efforts. The president affirmed that Mexico will maintain its policy of solidarity and encouraged other nations to participate, though she did not specify any multilateral mechanism.
Sheinbaum defended the cooperation agreements with Cuba, including those related to oil supply and the presence of Cuban doctors in Mexico, dismissing claims of exploitation and describing them as collaborative agreements.
She framed these efforts within Mexico's historical tradition of international solidarity, recalling past support during natural disasters and political crises in other countries.
In regards to the potential talks between the United States and Cuba, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio is reportedly engaged in secret discussions with Raúl Guillermo Rodríguez Castro, a trusted confidant and grandson of Raúl Castro. This could represent the first structured attempt to negotiate a transition in Cuba outside of the official channels of Miguel Díaz-Canel's government.
The revelation, reported by Axios and confirmed by sources from the Trump administration, indicates that these contacts are taking place directly with the inner circle of the regime's historic leader, bypassing the formal Communist Party apparatus and the Cuban president himself.
Key Questions on US-Cuba Dialogue Mediation
What role is Mexico playing in the US-Cuba dialogue?
Mexico, under President Claudia Sheinbaum, is considering acting as a mediator to facilitate dialogue between the United States and Cuba, contingent on the willingness of both nations to engage.
How does Mexico plan to support Cuba?
Mexico plans to continue providing humanitarian aid and supporting grassroots initiatives, such as the "people-to-people" solidarity campaigns, to assist Cuba.
Who is involved in the secret US-Cuba talks?
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio is reportedly in secret discussions with Raúl Guillermo Rodríguez Castro, a close associate and grandson of Raúl Castro, to explore a transition in Cuba.