Deputy Foreign Minister of Cuba, Carlos Fernández de Cossío, firmly dismissed the possibility of Cuba facing a future akin to Puerto Rico's status or undergoing an intervention similar to Venezuela's. He asserted that any attempts to alter the nation's political status would be staunchly resisted by the regime.
These remarks were made during an interview with Al Jazeera Arabic, recorded in Havana on July 24 and released this Monday by the Cuban Foreign Ministry.
When asked directly whether Cuba might become a U.S. territory like Puerto Rico or experience an operation akin to the one leading to Nicolás Maduro's capture in Venezuela, Fernández de Cossío replied, "Either of those options, or others, might be on their minds, but none are acceptable for Cuba."
Defending Sovereignty
The Cuban Foreign Ministry highlighted another significant statement from the interview, shared on its official X account: "Cuba will accept nothing less than what it enjoys today and what it achieved nearly 70 years ago: full sovereignty and the complete rights of the Cuban nation."
The comments come at a time of heightened tension between Havana and Washington. Since early 2026, the Trump administration has imposed around 250 sanctions against the Cuban regime, including a recent round announced on July 23 targeting nine entities and two senior officials linked to GAESA, the energy sector, and the medical missions program.
Hostility and Diplomatic Channels
Fernández de Cossío attributed this tightening to the U.S. foreign policy, which he described as "extremely hostile," and the influence of the anti-Castro lobby, referred to as "a very small but highly influential minority" within U.S. politics.
During the interview, the deputy minister also confirmed that Havana agreed to participate in a communication channel proposed by Washington, although he emphasized it was never considered a formal negotiation.
"We don't use the term negotiations because we weren't negotiating anything concrete," he clarified.
According to the official, the discussions stalled because the United States "continues to mistakenly believe it can impose its conditions on Cuba and extract concessions regarding our political and constitutional system."
Potential Conflict and International Mediation
The question of a scenario similar to Venezuela's gains significance after President Donald Trump stated on July 16 that the United States "could do that with Cuba," referencing the operation that led to Nicolás Maduro's capture on January 3, 2026. The president added that "many things are going to happen in Cuba in the next perhaps two months."
In response, Fernández de Cossío declared that the defense of the island is solely Cuba's responsibility, though he noted that allied countries might intervene if they chose to do so.
He also issued a caution regarding the consequences of a potential U.S. military action.
"It won't be easy. It will result in massive loss of life, destruction, and could lead to a bloodbath. And there will also be casualties on the American side," he stated.
Regarding potential international mediation, he deemed it unnecessary as both countries maintain diplomatic relations and have embassies in each other's capitals. However, he mentioned that Cuba would welcome the participation of a country that champions respect for international law and the island's sovereignty.
FAQs on Cuba's Political Future and International Relations
What is Cuba's stance on becoming a U.S. territory like Puerto Rico?
Cuba's Deputy Foreign Minister, Carlos Fernández de Cossío, has firmly rejected the notion of Cuba becoming a U.S. territory like Puerto Rico, stating that such options are unacceptable for Cuba.
Has Cuba engaged in formal negotiations with the United States?
Cuba has participated in a communication channel proposed by the United States, but Deputy Minister Fernández de Cossío emphasized that these were not formal negotiations and no concrete agreements were discussed.
What are the potential consequences of U.S. military action in Cuba?
Fernández de Cossío warned that U.S. military action in Cuba would lead to massive loss of life, destruction, and could result in a bloodbath, with casualties on both Cuban and American sides.