In a rare interview on NBC’s “Meet the Press,” Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel vowed that he and other leaders would be willing to “give our lives for the revolution” should the United States attempt regime change in Cuba or arrest him.
Díaz-Canel stated, “If that happens, there will be fighting, and there will be a struggle, and we will defend ourselves, and if we need to die, we’ll die.” He emphasized his commitment to making the “ultimate sacrifice” for Cuba’s communist system.
The remarks follow heightened U.S. pressure on Cuba as President Donald Trump escalates efforts to target authoritarian regimes in the region, following similar actions in Venezuela and Iran. Trump has indicated that Cuba could be among the next targets of a broader strategy aimed at regional stability.
Díaz-Canel acknowledged severe hardships in his country—including widespread blackouts, food shortages, and economic decline—yet attributed them primarily to the U.S. embargo. He denied the existence of political prisoners and rejected calls for democratic reforms or elections, stating such demands were “outside interference.”
The Cuban leader insisted Cuba would not be subject to American designs: “We are not subjected to the designs of the United States.” While he acknowledged potential dialogue with Washington, Díaz-Canel expressed deep distrust in U.S. intentions, citing past negotiations that coincided with military actions elsewhere.
