U.S. and Cuba Enter New Stage of Vatican-Mediated Negotiations

Havana releases 51 prisoners as gesture of goodwill, while Trump administration discusses economic deal

Mar. 14, 2026 at 6:39am

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The United States and Cuba are entering a new stage of behind-the-scenes negotiations mediated by the Vatican. Havana has announced the release of 51 prisoners, presented as a gesture of goodwill, while the Trump administration is discussing the contours of a possible economic deal. The Cuban side is rumored to be represented by Raul Castro's grandson, Raul Guillermo Rodriguez, in dialogue with Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

Why it matters

After the fall of the Maduro regime in Venezuela, Cuba lost its oil supply from its longtime ally and found itself on the verge of economic survival. In these circumstances, the Trump administration is shifting from belligerent rhetoric to bargaining, with the prospect of a "friendly takeover" of the island.

The details

The White House is wisely using Cuba's depletion after the loss of Venezuelan oil to its advantage, with the possibility of buying the island for "next to nothing" in exchange for basic economic survival. The authorities in Havana have taken a cautious step by announcing the release of 51 prisoners, without specifying whether any of them were defendants in "political articles".

  • On January 2026, the Maduro regime in Venezuela fell.

The players

Raul Guillermo Rodriguez

Raul Castro's grandson, rumored to be representing the Cuban side in the negotiations with the U.S.

Marco Rubio

U.S. Secretary of State, representing the American side in the negotiations with Cuba.

Raul Castro

Former president of Cuba, grandfather of Raul Guillermo Rodriguez.

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What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.