Cuba Denounces US Embargo at UN Amid Eroding Support

Cuba’s Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez denounced the “ruthless” US embargo during a UN General Assembly debate on Tuesday, reporting record economic damage of $8 billion over the past year. Source: Al Jazeera

• Rodriguez described a “multi-dimensional, non-conventional warfare” and said the blockade causes “collective punishment.” Source: SCMP
• The $8 billion figure represents a 7% increase, excluding the impact of a fuel blockade imposed in February. Source: SCMP
• The annual non-binding resolution calling for the embargo’s lift has lost support: 165 voted in favor in October 2025, down from 187, and a procedural vote showed 136 in favor with 30 abstentions, including traditional allies Germany and Canada. Source: Al Jazeera
• US Ambassador Mike Waltz denied a blockade, stating “the only embargo in Cuba is the guillotine the regime keeps over the heads of its people.” Source: Al Jazeera
• The European Union condemned the embargo but also called for “meaningful political and economic reforms” in Cuba and criticized its alignment with Russia. Source: Al Jazeera
• The fuel blockade has led to severe power cuts and shortages of food, water, and medicine, with the UN warning of a humanitarian emergency. Source: Al Jazeera