For the first time in 10 years, the U.S. has sent a government plane to Cuba for talks — Axios

Representatives from the U.S. State Department held talks with Cuban officials in Havana—marking the first time in a decade that a U.S. government plane has landed in Cuba.

Axios reports this.

The American delegation urged the Cuban leadership to implement democratic and economic reforms and offered assistance in restoring internet access, specifically through Starlink satellite connectivity.

According to the publication, the meetings were attended by, among others, Raúl Guillermo Rodríguez Castro—Raúl Castro’s grandson.

The U.S. emphasized that the economic situation in Cuba is deteriorating, and the government has limited time to implement reforms.

The U.S. side also reaffirmed its position regarding the possible lifting of the embargo, contingent on political changes, specifically the release of political prisoners and the holding of free elections.

In addition, the U.S. expressed concern over the presence of foreign intelligence and military forces in Cuba.

The State Department noted that Washington seeks a diplomatic solution but will not tolerate threats to its national security.

As a reminder, Trump authorized oil shipments to Cuba from Russia and other countries.

The UK will also begin intercepting tankers from Russia’s shadow fleet.