Cuba in contact with US, diplomat says, as Trump issues threat to block oil

"We have had exchange of messages, we have embassies, we have had communications, but we cannot say we have had a table of dialogue, de Cossio said."

"If we can have a dialogue, maybe that can lead to negotiation."

"I think we're going to make a deal with Cuba, Trump told reporters at his Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida."

Exchanges of messages and communications have occurred between Cuba and the United States, but those exchanges have not developed into a formal dialogue. Cuba is prepared for a serious, meaningful and responsible dialogue and suggests that dialogue could lead to negotiation. Tensions rose after the US military's abduction of Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro and following increased pressure from the United States. Cuba has declared that certain issues are off the table, specifically the constitution, the economy, and the socialist system of government. The US has warned of tariffs on countries supplying oil to Cuba and announced that Mexico will cease sending oil, increasing pressure.

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