An article in Granma outlines Cuba-US bilateral relations as characterized by the current US administration's intensification of the economic, commercial, and financial blockade lasting over six decades. Key measures include an executive order blocking oil supplies to Cuba and pressures to end medical cooperation programs. Nonetheless, the Cuban government reaffirms its openness to dialogue grounded in respect for sovereignty.
Bilateral relations between Cuba and the United States are currently defined by several actions from Washington, according to an analysis in Granma, the official organ of the Communist Party of Cuba. First, the US administration has intensified the blockade through a White House Executive Order dated January 29, imposing an energy blockade and threatening third countries and companies to prevent oil and its derivatives from reaching Cuba. This impacts transportation, lighting, food production, and basic services like water and hospitals.
A key element is Washington's stated intent to cut off legitimate income to the Cuban economy, including pressures on third nations to suspend medical cooperation programs with Cuba, which have aided the needy in Latin America, the Caribbean, Africa, Asia, and Europe. These programs provide revenue for Cuba's public health system.
Additionally, the US indirectly targets the tourism industry via the energy blockade and pressures on tour operators and airlines. Remittances from Cubans in the US to their families in Cuba have been suspended, a vital income source for many.
Washington tolerates violent and terrorist actions against Cuba from its territory, such as a recent speedboat incursion by terrorists armed with high-caliber weapons, explosives, and military equipment, or payments to ten Panamanians to paint posters and organize internal counterrevolution. It also funds media campaigns blaming the Cuban government for shortages, blackouts, lack of food, medicine, and transportation.
Finally, a narrative about supposed negotiations aims to confuse and divide the population. Historically, Cuba has engaged in dialogue with administrations like Obama's, which reestablished diplomatic relations; Clinton's, on migration issues; and Carter's, to establish interest sections. President Miguel Díaz-Canel has reaffirmed willingness to discuss all topics, defending the sovereign right to self-determination. The Cuban government counters with resilience plans and collective creativity.
