President of This Communist Country Stands Firm Against US Pressure, Russia Steps In

Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel has asserted that he will not back down despite pressure from the United States. This statement was made during his first television interview with US media, NBC News.

“We have a sovereign and free country, an independent country. We have self-determination and independence, and we do not submit to the United States’ plans,” said Diaz-Canel, quoted on Friday (10/4/2026).

He also emphasised that the US government has no moral basis to demand changes from Cuba. “The concept of revolutionaries surrendering and retreating is not part of our vocabulary,” he stated.

Meanwhile, Washington’s pressure on Havana has intensified, including policies that restrict energy supplies to the country. The US has even threatened to impose tariffs on any country supplying oil to Cuba.

This situation has worsened the energy crisis plaguing Cuba since the beginning of the year, following disruptions to its main oil supply from Venezuela. Currently, Cuba can only meet about 40% of its fuel needs domestically.

Amid this pressure, Russia has shown open support for Cuba. Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov affirmed that Moscow will not abandon its ally in the region.

“We cannot betray Cuba. That is impossible. We cannot leave it alone,” said Ryabkov, as quoted by Russian news agency.

He added that Russia will continue to provide support, not only through oil shipments but also other efforts to help Cuba cope with the impact of sanctions.

Previously, a Russian tanker carrying around 730,000 barrels of crude oil arrived in Cuba at the end of March, marking the first delivery in the last three months.

Tensions between the US and Cuba have also risen after US President Donald Trump launched sharp criticism against the government in Havana, labelling it a threat to US national security.

Nevertheless, Diaz-Canel emphasised that Cuba remains open to dialogue, provided it is conducted without preconditions and with respect for the country’s sovereignty.