Cuba's president refuses to resign

The Cuban leader's defiance comes as Russia pledges to support its old ally and help the island tackle energy shortages linked to the US embargo.

Trump administration officials have reportedly sought a regime change in Havana, citing Cuba's close ties to Iran and its role in regional instability.

Díaz-Canel maintained that the island's socialist system remains resilient and that the Cuban people are prepared to defend their sovereignty.

This diplomatic standoff occurs as the US focuses on multiple fronts, with some analysts warning that the administration's aggressive posture could push Cuba further into the orbit of Moscow and Beijing.