On Thursday, U.S. Vice President JD Vance confirmed during a press briefing at the White House that active discussions are ongoing with the Cuban regime regarding potential policy changes. He emphasized that any improvements in bilateral relations would hinge on the decisions made by Havana.
The remarks followed a direct inquiry from journalist Juan Esteban Silva, who asked whether Cuba was "next" on the Trump administration's agenda, in light of the President's announcement of an agreement with Iran on June 14.
Initially, Vance attempted to deflect the question to the Secretary of State, saying, "You'd have to ask Marco about Cuba." However, he then proceeded to offer one of the most candid responses on the negotiations from a high-ranking official.
Systemic Failures in Cuba
"Fundamentally, there's a system in Cuba that hasn't worked. They can't generate wealth. Their economy, frankly, might be in worse shape than Iran's," the Vice President stated.
He also highlighted the immigration aspect of the issue for the U.S.: "It's just 90 miles off our shores, so whenever there's a crisis, we end up with desperate refugees or families unable to feed themselves trying to reach our country en masse."
Humanitarian Concerns and Diplomatic Conditions
Vance framed Washington's stance in humanitarian terms—"We want the Cuban people to be happy and successful"—but was clear that any diplomatic progress depended on Cuba's actions: "We're currently in talks with the Cuban government on how they might change their approach to transform the situation. We'll see what they do."
He concluded with a straightforward warning: "If they make smart decisions, we'll have a much better relationship with that island."
Growing U.S. Pressure
Vance's comments come amid escalating U.S. pressure. On January 29, 2026, Trump signed an executive order declaring Cuba an "unusual and extraordinary threat" to national security and authorized tariffs on countries supplying it with oil.
In May, Secretary Rubio imposed sanctions on the military conglomerate GAESA, stating that the probability of an agreement was "low."
Both governments ramped up contact in spring 2026, highlighted by CIA Director John Ratcliffe's visit to Havana on May 14.
However, the Cuban regime acknowledged that significant progress in negotiations has been lacking. Deputy Foreign Minister Josefina Vidal admitted on May 28 that "there hasn't been much progress," as Cuba remains open to discussing migration and trade but refuses any conditions affecting its one-party system.
Washington's ultimatum for the release of high-profile political prisoners expired on April 24 without results, and Díaz-Canel had threatened to break off negotiations if the U.S. insisted on conditions altering the political system.
The question of whether Cuba would be "next" after Iran gained traction in the days leading up to the press briefing, although Trump shifted his focus to Ukraine during the G7 summit on June 16, delaying Cuba as an immediate priority.
Frequently Asked Questions About U.S.-Cuba Relations
What are the main issues in U.S.-Cuba relations?
The primary issues involve Cuba's economic system, human rights situation, and its close proximity to the United States, which leads to immigration challenges. The U.S. is also concerned about Cuba's political structure and lack of reforms.
What conditions has the U.S. set for improving relations with Cuba?
The U.S. has indicated that any progress in relations would depend on Cuba making smart policy decisions, including reforms to its political and economic systems and addressing human rights concerns.
Has there been any progress in negotiations between the U.S. and Cuba?
As of now, there has been little progress. The Cuban government has been unwilling to accept conditions that would alter its one-party system, despite ongoing discussions about migration and trade.