US-Cuba Dialogue: President Miguel Díaz-Canel says Cuba is willing to talk with Washington “without pressure,” insisting any talks must be on “equal” terms and with respect for sovereignty. Power Under the Surface: A Bloomberg report says U.S. officials believe Cuba’s leadership is shaped by the Castro family, with influence spread across the Armed Forces and Communist Party bureaucracy—complicating Washington’s strategy. Economic Pressure, Explained: Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent again framed Cuba as a test case for how long a regime can endure sanctions, while warning of “measures like never seen before” aimed at Iran. Electricity Crisis Hits Again: In Cárdenas, a lightning strike has knocked out the Smith Comas substation, worsening power and water supply problems as transformer shortages loom. Infrastructure Safety: In Matanzas, a section of railing on the historic General Lacret Morlot Bridge is missing, leaving pedestrians—especially elderly walkers—exposed. Diplomatic Fallout: Cuba’s embassy staff in Santo Domingo moved belongings as nine Cuban diplomats face a Dominican expulsion deadline. Regional Crime Crackdown: CARICOM’s Operation Eclipse seized about $54.5 million in illicit assets and contraband across the Caribbean. Fidel at 100: Multiple tributes and centenary coverage continue to spotlight Fidel Castro’s legacy amid Cuba’s ongoing crisis.