Former Cuban-American Democratic Congressman Joe García expressed his approval on Saturday regarding the renewed dialogue between the United States and Cuban governments, describing it as "great news" in a video he shared on Instagram.
"The United States and Cuban governments are talking again," García stated in the 38-second video, where he specifically mentioned an article by journalist Marc Caputo from Axios that corroborates the existence of these negotiations.
García noted, "It confirms what many of us knew was happening—that both governments are engaging in discussions."
U.S. Delegation Meets Cuban Officials
A report from the American media outlet disclosed that on Friday, a State Department delegation convened in Havana with representatives of the Cuban regime, including Raúl Guillermo Rodríguez Castro, also known as El Cangrejo. Raúl Guillermo, 41, is the grandson of Raúl Castro and serves as head of his personal security.
Washington perceives Raúl Guillermo as the unofficial spokesperson for the former leader, who retains actual power despite not holding an official position, while Miguel Díaz-Canel was absent from the meetings.
This meeting marked the first landing of an official U.S. aircraft in Cuba since Barack Obama's visit in 2016, according to the same report.
Key Issues on the Table
The U.S. has outlined several demands, including compensation for properties seized since 1959, the release of political prisoners, guarantees for free elections, internet access via Starlink, and addressing the presence of foreign intelligence on the island.
In March, García had already acknowledged the role of Secretary of State Marco Rubio in the process, stating that "against all odds, there is hope." He maintained a similarly optimistic tone on Saturday upon the public confirmation of these contacts.
"This is good news during a bad time for Cuba and its citizens," remarked the former congressman, who has historically advocated for dialogue conditioned on genuine reforms.
Ongoing Diplomatic Efforts Amid Economic Strife
The diplomatic process is unfolding amidst a severe economic crisis in Cuba, which the Trump administration has likened to the Special Period of the 1990s.
In early April, Cuban Deputy Foreign Minister Josefina Vidal described the process as a "very preliminary phase" without formal negotiations, while on Friday, Díaz-Canel asserted that Cuba will never be a trophy or a star.
García concluded his message with a hopeful note: "I hope, I have faith, that these talks will lead to something significant at a critical juncture for Cuba's history and its people."
Frequently Asked Questions About U.S.-Cuba Negotiations
What are the main topics of discussion in the U.S.-Cuba talks?
The discussions include compensations for confiscated properties, the release of political prisoners, assurances for free elections, internet access via Starlink, and concerns about foreign intelligence presence in Cuba.
Who participated in the recent U.S.-Cuba meetings?
A delegation from the U.S. State Department met with Cuban officials, including Raúl Guillermo Rodríguez Castro, a key figure in the Cuban regime and grandson of Raúl Castro.
What is the current economic situation in Cuba?
Cuba is facing a severe economic crisis, which has been compared to the difficult Special Period of the 1990s by some U.S. officials.