‘Find Lasting Solution’: Brazil, Mexico, Spain Back Cuba Amid Trump Pressure

Last Updated:April 19, 2026, 08:55 IST

The three countries said they were deeply worried about the humanitarian crisis affecting the Cuban people. They called for steps to ease the situation.

As pressure from US President Donald Trump intensifies, Mexico, Spain and Brazil have issued a joint statement expressing concern over the “dramatic situation" in Cuba. The three countries called for a “sincere and respectful dialogue" to find a lasting solution, while stressing that the Cuban people should be free to decide their own future.

The three countries, led by left-leaning governments, said they were deeply worried about the humanitarian crisis affecting the Cuban people. They called for steps to ease the situation and urged a response in line with international law.

Call for dialogue

Without directly naming the United States, the statement appealed for a “sincere and respectful dialogue". It said the aim should be to find a lasting solution and ensure that Cuba’s future is decided by its own people, freely.

The appeal came during a summit of leftist leaders in Barcelona, led by Pedro Sánchez. Among those present were Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum and Brazil’s Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, who also called for efforts to protect democracy.

Trump on Cuba

The statement follows a series of comments by Trump suggesting that Cuba could be his next focus after developments in Venezuela and Iran. He said he could “take Cuba in some form" and claimed he could “do anything" with the country.

Such remarks are unusual in US-Cuba relations. Since Fidel Castro came to power, no US president has publicly suggested taking control of the island. 

At the same time, the United States has increased economic pressure on Cuba. Since January, Washington has effectively blocked oil shipments by warning other countries against supplying fuel. A US Coast Guard vessel also intercepted a tanker carrying crude oil to the island.

The impact has been severe. Cuba has not received major fuel supplies since early January. This has led to rising prices on the black market and frequent power cuts. A recent nationwide blackout lasted 29 hours, and large parts of Havana were left without electricity.

The crisis is affecting daily life across Cuba. Hospitals have delayed surgeries, medicines are in short supply, and food shortages are growing.

In response, the Cuban government has begun talks with the United States and indicated possible economic changes. Authorities have announced plans to allow Cubans living abroad to invest and run businesses in the country.

Trump also addressed reports about possible US military action in Cuba. He said it depended on how “military action" is defined. His remarks came amid media reports suggesting the Pentagon is preparing contingency plans, although no official decision has been confirmed.

According to reports, such a move would mark a major shift in US policy, which has long been shaped by political tensions, sanctions and strained relations.

Cuba responds

Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel said the country is ready to respond to any attack. He stated that Cuba does not seek confrontation but will defend itself if needed.

Calling the situation serious, he urged vigilance and warned of “serious threats", including possible military aggression. He made the remarks at an event marking a historic speech by Fidel Castro during a time of tension with the United States.

As tensions rise, both sides continue to exchange statements, with the situation remaining uncertain.

News world ‘Find Lasting Solution’: Brazil, Mexico, Spain Back Cuba Amid Trump Pressure

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