Diplomatic Deadlock: Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel Rejects Trump’s 2026 Threats

The Caribbean is bracing for a storm as words and threats fly between Washington and Havana. While Donald Trump claims the U.S. is "talking to Cuba," Miguel Diaz-Canel has fired back, denying any high-level negotiations exist. It's a classic case of diplomatic gaslighting, leaving the region's stability hanging by a thread.

Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel US threats 2026: A Denial of Dialogue

According to social media posts and reports from news agencies on January 12, 2026, Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel stated that there are no current talks between his government and the United States. He clarified that while routine coordination on immigration persists, no "larger talks" are happening. This contradicts Trump's Sunday remarks where he suggested a deal was in the works, urging Havana to act "before it's too late."

The Oil Squeeze and Regional Pressure

Trump's strategy isn't just military; it's economic. He's vowed to cut off the 35,000 barrels of oil Venezuela supplies to Cuba daily. For an island already struggling under heavy sanctions, this is an existential threat. Jorge Pinon of the Energy Institute at UT Austin notes that while Russia and Mexico provide some relief—7,500 and 5,500 barrels respectively—it's not enough to cover the looming deficit.

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum recently spoke with Trump, focusing on commerce and security. While she emphasizes Mexico's sovereignty, she hasn't increased oil sales to Havana, leaving Diaz-Canel's administration increasingly isolated in its defense of "every last drop of blood."