Cuban diplomat confirms recent US delegation talks in Havana amid crisis

On Monday, a high-ranking Cuban official acknowledged that discussions took place in Havana involving delegations from Cuba and the United States. Alejandro Garcia, who oversees Cuba-US relations at the foreign ministry, characterized the talks as both respectful and sensitive. He emphasized to the Communist Party's Granma newspaper that a primary focus for Cuba is the termination of the US oil blockade. This confirmation arrives as the island grapples with a severe crisis exacerbated by US President Donald Trump's pressure tactics. Axios reported that US negotiators presented several prerequisites for continuing talks, including the release of notable political prisoners, a claim Garcia refuted on the same day. These discussions signify diplomatic efforts amidst ongoing tensions between the two countries.