Future of US-Cuba relations hinges on Havana’s next moves, Vance warns

The White House is engaged in discussions with the Cuban government regarding potential changes that could contribute to improved bilateral relations between Havana and Washington, US Vice President J.D. Vance said.

Speaking at a press conference, Vance indicated that the future of US-Cuba relations would largely depend on the decisions made by the Cuban leadership, Caliber.Az reports, citing Russian media.

"If the Cuban authorities make reasonable decisions, US relations with the island will become much better," he stated.

"We want the Cuban people to be happy and successful. We are currently negotiating with the Cuban Government on how they could change their approach and change this situation. We'll see what they do," the vice president said.

Vance emphasized that Washington's policy toward Cuba would be determined by Havana's future actions.

The remarks come as Cuba pursues a series of economic reforms aimed at increasing flexibility within its state-controlled economy. Under the measures, state-owned enterprises are being granted greater autonomy in planning, while regional authorities are receiving increased budgetary independence.

Tensions between Havana and Washington have remained high in recent months. On May 22, Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez Parrilla accused US Secretary of State Marco Rubio of attempting to provoke military aggression against Cuba through the tightening of US sanctions.

Responding to the criticism, Rubio argued that Cuba poses a threat to US national security and maintained that the country requires "systematic and serious changes" in order to no longer be regarded as a "failed" and potentially dangerous state.

By Vafa Guliyeva