Cuba Begins Prisoner Release

March 13, 2026

Screen grab from footage broadcast by Cuban official TV on March 13, 2026, showing Cuba's President Miguel Diaz-Canel speaking next to an image of late Cuban leader Fidel Castro during a meeting with the communist-governed island's top authorities in Havana. President Miguel Diaz-Canel said on March 13 that Cuban and US officials recently held talks as President Donald Trump's administration piles pressure on the communist island. (Photo by CUBA TV / AFP) / RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE - MANDATORY CREDIT "AFP PHOTO / CUBA TV " - NO MARKETING NO ADVERTISING CAMPAIGNS - DISTRIBUTED AS A SERVICE TO CLIENTS

Cuba’s communist authorities on Friday began freeing prisoners under an agreement negotiated with the Vatican and confirmed that talks with the United States were under way, after mounting pressure from President Donald Trump.

Rights group Justicia 11J said it could confirm the release of two people jailed for taking part in major anti‑government protests in July 2021.

Cuba announced on Thursday that it planned to free 51 prisoners after discussions with the Holy See, which has a history of mediating between Havana and Washington.

Havana described the releases as a “goodwill” gesture to the Vatican, without providing details on the identities or records of those being freed.

Cuba Crisis (NewsCentral TV) — View of a street at La Guinera neighborhood in Havana on March 13, 2026. Cuba’s President Miguel Diaz-Canel confirmed on March 13, 2026 that Cuban officials have recently held talks with representatives of the United States, amid heightened tensions between Washington and Havana. (Photo by YAMIL LAGE / AFP)

The unusual clemency came hours after Cuban President Miguel Díaz‑Canel confirmed that his government was holding talks with the US, aimed at addressing long‑standing bilateral differences.

Trump has said Cuba will be “next” on his agenda following actions against Iran and the overthrow of Cuba’s key ally, Nicolás Maduro of Venezuela.

In January, Trump imposed a US oil blockade on the island, cutting its fuel supply because of what he described as an “extraordinary threat,” adding to a decades‑long economic embargo by Washington.

During a nationally broadcast meeting with senior officials, Díaz‑Canel confirmed talks with Washington but gave little detail about their content. “Cuban officials recently held discussions with representatives of the United States government,” he said, referring to negotiations first indicated by Trump in mid‑January.

“These conversations have been aimed at seeking solutions — through dialogue — to the bilateral differences,” he added.

Mexico’s president described the development as positive, emphasising the importance of peace and diplomatic engagement.

US media reports also indicate that representatives linked to the Cuban leadership have been engaged in secret talks with senior US officials.

The move comes as Cuba’s energy and economic crises, exacerbated by fuel shortages and power outages, continue to intensify

Author

Toyibat Ajose

Toyibat is a highly motivated Mass Communication major and results-oriented professional with a robust foundation in media, education, and communication. Leveraging years of hands-on experience in journalism, she has honed her ability to craft compelling narratives, conduct thorough research, and deliver accurate and engaging content that resonates with diverse audiences.