Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel has rejected calls to resign under pressure from the United States, asserting in a rare NBC News interview that Cuba remains a sovereign nation with full independence in its political decisions.
He stressed that external forces, particularly Washington, have no authority to dictate leadership changes in Cuba, adding that the idea of revolutionaries stepping down under pressure is not part of the country's political culture.
His remarks come as tensions escalate between Havana and the United States, which has intensified its pressure campaign by threatening tariffs on countries supplying oil to Cuba, effectively worsening a severe energy crisis on the island. The situation deteriorated further after disruptions to key oil supplies from Venezuela earlier this year, leaving Cuba struggling to meet its fuel demands.
Amid these challenges, Russia has reaffirmed its strong support for Cuba, signaling continued cooperation and assistance.
During a recent visit to Havana, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov emphasized that Moscow would not abandon its longtime ally and intends to expand its support beyond recent oil shipments.
Russia's renewed backing highlights a broader geopolitical standoff, as Cuba faces mounting pressure from the United States while strengthening ties with Moscow to navigate its ongoing economic and energy difficulties.
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