Cuban President Vows Unbreakable Resistance Against US Takeover Threats

Cuban leader Miguel Díaz-Canel emphasized Tuesday that his nation would resist any US attempt to dominate it, calling the effort an “impregnable resistance.” This declaration came as power was gradually restored to parts of the island after a nationwide blackout. The crisis exposed vulnerabilities in Cuba’s infrastructure, with millions affected by the sudden loss of electricity.

Speaking on X, Díaz-Canel accused the US of using Cuba’s economic struggles as a “pretext” to exert control. He argued that Washington’s actions were part of a broader campaign targeting the Cuban people, a strategy he described as “collective punishment.” “Even in the most severe circumstances, Cuba stands firm,” he added, underscoring the nation’s readiness to defend itself.

US President Donald Trump had previously hinted at a potential Cuba takeover, stating Monday that he could act “anyway he wants.” On Tuesday, he reiterated: “We’ll be doing something with Cuba very soon.” Secretary of State Marco Rubio echoed this sentiment, suggesting that Cuba’s current leadership required replacement. “Their economy is faltering… and the people in charge lack the ability to fix it,” Rubio said.

The power outage followed a disruption in Cuba’s oil supply earlier this year, crippling its aging energy system. On Monday, nearly all of the island’s 10 million residents faced darkness, forcing some to cook with torches and candles. Schools cut short hours, and sports events were delayed as waste piled up due to halted dump truck operations.

By Tuesday, approximately 55% of Havana’s electricity users had regained power, with progress also noted in western and central-eastern regions. However, the outages deepened hardships for Cubans already grappling with frequent blackouts. The situation intensified fears of US intervention, though many civilians remain hopeful for peace.

Residents’ Mixed Reactions

“As people, as civilians, we aren’t ready for war,” said Marianela Alvarez, a Havana resident. “I want Trump to understand—just leave us alone.”

Despite the challenges, some Cubans expressed optimism about potential negotiations. Luis Enrique Garcia, another local, noted that the country’s struggles might encourage exiles to return. “I believe dialogue and understanding will happen,” he said, “because love, not war, should unite us.”

Not all shared this hope. Amed Echenique, a Havana resident, doubted the sincerity of talks with Trump. “I don’t trust a dialogue with Trump,” he said. “I don’t trust Trump as a person, even with what I know about him. That’s why I don’t see much hope.”

Government Engages in Talks

Díaz-Canel confirmed that Cuban officials had initiated discussions with the US to address “bilateral issues requiring resolution.” This marked the first public acknowledgment from Havana of ongoing talks, aligning with Trump’s earlier claims of diplomatic engagement with the island.