HAVANA, May 15 : The Cuban government on Thursday confirmed that John Ratcliffe met senior officials from Cuba’s Interior Ministry during a high level visit to Havana focused on national security and bilateral relations.
According to an official Cuban statement, the May 14 meeting was aimed at improving political communication between the two countries despite decades of strained ties. Cuban representatives presented what they described as evidence showing the island does not pose a threat to the United States.
Officials from Havana argued that Washington has no justification for continuing to list Cuba as a state sponsor of terrorism. The Cuban delegation said the discussions highlighted the country’s commitment to regional stability and dialogue.
The engagement comes amid renewed diplomatic contacts between the two sides, even as tensions remain over long-standing US sanctions and restrictions on Cuba’s energy sector.
Earlier this year, former US President Donald Trump warned of possible tariffs on nations supplying oil to Cuba and suggested stronger action against the island. In response, Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel said Cuba was prepared to defend its sovereignty if required.
The latest meeting signals continued backchannel communication between Washington and Havana despite deep political differences.