CIA chief visits Cuba as US demands 'fundamental changes'
The CIA chief has made a historic visit to Havana for discussions with senior Cuban officials amid ongoing blackouts in the country, which are attributed to a U.S. oil blockade. This visit comes as the U.S. government demands fundamental changes in Cuba's political landscape.

WPN Brief
- What Happened
The CIA chief has made a historic visit to Havana for discussions with senior Cuban officials amid ongoing blackouts in the country, which are attributed to a U.S. oil blockade. This visit comes as the U.S. government demands fundamental changes in Cuba's political landscape.
- Why It Matters
This meeting signifies a critical moment in U.S.-Cuba relations, as it reflects the U.S. administration's ongoing efforts to influence Cuba's governance while addressing humanitarian concerns stemming from the blockade.
- The Bigger Picture
The backdrop of this visit includes heightened tensions surrounding Cuba's political leadership, particularly with the potential indictment of former president Raúl Castro, and widespread protests in Havana due to severe fuel shortages, indicating a complex interplay of diplomatic and domestic challenges for both nations.
Related Reports
More coverage on this story
7 reports across the wire
Cuba says CIA chief Ratcliffe met with officials in Havana amid US tensions
CIA Director John Ratcliffe engaged in high-level discussions with officials in Havana, Cuba, focusing on intelligence cooperation, economic stability, and security issues amid ongoing tensions between the U.S. and Cuba.
CIA Director John Ratcliffe meets with Cuban officials in Havana
CIA Director John Ratcliffe met with Cuban officials in Havana, including Raúl Castro's grandson, as part of ongoing diplomatic efforts between the U.S. and Cuba. This meeting, confirmed by both U.S. and Cuban officials, highlights a significant moment in the relationship between the two nations.
CIA director travels to Havana to meet with Cuban officials
CIA Director John Ratcliffe traveled to Havana to meet with Cuban officials, delivering a message from President Trump that the United States is prepared to engage in discussions regarding economic and security issues. This visit marks a notable step in U.S.-Cuba relations amid ongoing diplomatic challenges.
Ratcliffe meets with Cuban officials as CIA warns negotiation window 'will not stay open indefinitely'
CIA Director John Ratcliffe visited Cuba to engage with officials amid ongoing negotiations, following President Trump's earlier comments about a potential invasion of the island. The CIA has indicated that the timeframe for these negotiations is limited, urging Cuban officials to recognize the urgency of the situation.
Protests flare in Havana as Cuba runs out of diesel and fuel oil amid US blockade – video
Protests have erupted in Havana as Cuba faces severe rolling blackouts due to a complete depletion of diesel and fuel oil, exacerbated by a US blockade. Residents have taken to the streets, gathering around fires to express their frustration over prolonged power outages affecting daily life. The situation has escalated following increased US pressure on Cuba, particularly after the seizure of Venezuelan oil shipments.
DOJ pushing to indict Raúl Castro over 1996 downing of civilian planes
The U.S. Justice Department is reportedly moving to indict former Cuban president Raúl Castro over the 1996 downing of civilian planes, which resulted in the deaths of four Cuban Americans. This legal action against the 94-year-old leader marks a significant escalation in U.S.-Cuba relations, which have been fraught with tension for decades.
DOJ pushing to indict Raúl Castro over 1996 downing of civilian planes, officials say
The U.S. Justice Department is reportedly moving to indict 94-year-old Raúl Castro, the former president of Cuba, over the 1996 downing of civilian planes that resulted in the deaths of four Cuban Americans. This legal action reflects ongoing tensions between the U.S. and Cuba, particularly regarding Castro's legacy and actions during his leadership.