Carlos Fernandez de Cossio on U.S.-Cuban Relations: A Complex Dance of Migration, Geopolitical Conflicts, and Domestic Challenges

During our exclusive interview with Carlos Fernández de Cossío, Cuba’s deputy minister of foreign affairs, we delved into the latest developments in U.S.-Cuban relations. One of the main topics discussed was the recent high-level talks between the two countries that took place in Washington. According to Fernández de Cossío, the flow of people between the two countries has been significantly impacted by U.S. policies aimed at expediting permanent residency for Cubans in the United States.

However, he emphasized that while this policy may have reduced migration, it is still not enough to address the root cause of migration – the enduring U.S. embargo on Cuba.

Fernández de Cossío also touched upon other issues such as the upcoming 2024 election and potential policy continuities between the Trump and Biden administrations. He shared Cuba’s stance on various global conflicts, including its position on U.S-backed Israeli military action in Gaza.

In addition, he discussed recent protests within Cuba addressing living conditions and other grievances.

Overall, our conversation shed light on the complex dynamics shaping U.S.-Cuban relations from migration policies to geopolitical conflicts and domestic challenges facing the island nation.

In conclusion, Fernández de Cossío highlighted that despite some positive developments in U.S-Cuban relations, there are still significant challenges that need to be addressed if both countries are to move towards a more positive relationship in the future.