A U.S. businessman and Republican congressional candidate visited Havana this week, where he engaged in discussions with Raul Guillermo Rodriguez Castro, the grandson of former Cuban president Raul Castro, about potential business opportunities. Vic Mellor, who is seeking election in Rhode Island this November, confirmed to AFP that the meeting took place on Thursday night during a multi-day trip to Cuba that ended on Friday.

Rodriguez Castro, who holds the rank of colonel and serves as the head of his grandfather’s personal security detail, does not occupy an official government position. However, U.S. media outlets have identified him as a significant figure in the ongoing dialogue between Cuba and the United States, particularly in the context of the evolving diplomatic and economic relations between the two countries.

AFP was unable to independently verify the meeting. Mellor described the encounter as timely given the current stage of U.S.-Cuba relations, hinting at the potential for expanding commercial ties as diplomatic channels continue to open. Neither Mellor nor Cuban officials provided detailed information on the nature of the business discussions or any specific arrangements.

The visit and meeting come at a pivotal moment as both countries navigate a complex relationship shaped by decades of political tension, recent attempts at rapprochement, and ongoing economic restrictions. Mellor’s involvement highlights the growing interest from some sectors in the United States to explore new engagements with Cuba, even as political and legislative hurdles remain.

Details about Mellor’s trip beyond the meeting with Rodriguez Castro have not been disclosed, and it remains unclear how this interaction may influence his campaign or potential future business ventures. The U.S. government has not commented on the meeting or any direct participation by Mellor in official diplomatic efforts.