Cuban Prime Minister Manuel Marrero Cruz has dismissed claims of internal divisions within the country’s leadership following recent remarks by Raul Castro’s grandson suggesting he was open to dialogue with U.S. President Donald Trump.
The comments came after Raul Guillermo Rodriguez Castro, who does not hold any official government position, expressed willingness to negotiate with the United States, prompting speculation about possible differences within Cuba’s leadership over relations with Washington.
Responding to the reports, Marrero said the Cuban government remains united and confirmed that discussions with U.S. representatives have taken place in an effort to address bilateral issues through dialogue.
He stated that the team responsible for handling relations with the United States has the full backing and mandate of Cuba’s top leadership, including Communist Party leader and President Miguel Díaz-Canel.
Cuban foreign ministry officials have maintained that while communication channels between both countries remain open, there has been little progress in improving diplomatic relations.
The issue also resurfaced during a recent United Nations meeting, where Cuba’s Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez accused the United States of using economic sanctions and the long-standing embargo to inflict hardship on the Cuban people.
Many countries participating in the debate called for the removal of the sanctions, arguing they have severely affected Cuba’s economy. In response, U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Michael Waltz said Cuba’s government is responsible for the country’s ongoing electricity shortages.
