Cuba denies US contact progress, signals stalled bilateral thaw

Cuban Vice Minister Carlos Fernández De Cossío stated there has been no progress in direct communications or face-to-face meetings with the US, contradicting any suggestion of a thaw. The denial reinforces a continued stalemate in bilateral relations, with no concrete diplomatic steps confirmed. This matters as it signals persistent friction between Washington and Havana, with implications for regional diplomacy and sanctions policy.