The Vatican is actively promoting dialogue on Cuba, with Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin stating that the Holy See has taken “the necessary steps” to encourage a negotiated solution to the island’s problems. This comes after Pope Leo XIV received Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno RodrÃguez Parrilla in audience at the Vatican on February 28, 2026. The meeting was part of intensified diplomatic contacts involving Cuba, including a previous meeting between the U.S. diplomatic mission in Havana and Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, the Vatican’s secretary for relations with states.
Cardinal Parolin emphasized the Vatican’s commitment to dialogue, saying, “The Holy See speaks with everyone and, when necessary, also speaks with the Americans and the Israelis, presenting what, in our view, could be solutions.” The Vatican has played a mediating role between Cuba and the United States in the past, including facilitating the release of 553 prisoners in Cuba during President Joe Biden’s administration.
The Vatican is also concerned about the growing military escalation in the Middle East, with Cardinal Parolin calling for open dialogue to prevent a broader conflict. He expressed sorrow over the killing of Maronite Father Pierre El-Rahi in Lebanon and warned of the risk of declining Christian presence in the region due to war and instability.