What Do Cubans Think About U.S.–Cuba Talks?

For years, the Cuban government has expressed a willingness to engage in dialogue with the United States. But Trump and Biden rejected dialogue and instead embraced a Cold-War era policy of hostility.

Cuba’s President Miguel Díaz-Canel confirmed on Friday that Cuban and U.S. officials were engaged in talks.

Belly of the Beast went to the streets of Havana to ask Cubans what they think about the recently announced discussions between the governments of Cuba and the United States.

One message stands out: dialogue is a good thing.

TRANSCRIPT

“The best way to understand each other is through dialogue,” said a Havana resident.

“It’s in everyone’s benefit,” another person added.

“[Better U.S.–Cuba relations] could improve electricity, transportation, fuel,” said another resident.

“Any dialogue between countries that seek the well-being of their peoples is beneficial,” another Havana resident said.

“Each side has to do its part, recognize what it’s done right, what it’s done wrong and the mistakes that must be acknowledged, as well as the things we can’t give up,” the resident added.

“I think it’d be very positive and could greatly help solve most of this country’s problems,” said Juana Rosa del Pino, school administrator.

“Hopefully an agreement is reached so the Cuban people can see progress because things are worse now than during the Special Period of the 1990s,” said Rebeca Domínguez, housewife.

“We’re in a critical situation due to the fuel shortage, and there’s growing frustration among the population,” said another Havana resident.

“Many of us workers gather there [at the bus stop] starting at 5:15 in the morning, and it’s for nothing,” the resident added.

“I’m a doctor. I have my own car, and I used to drive it to work. Now I can’t do that anymore,” he said.

“Look at where we’ve ended up just because [the U.S.] doesn’t like the system this country has,” the resident said.

“For us to get along wonderfully would be ideal, for the Cuban people and for the American people,” another person said.

“Hopefully it happens,” the resident added.