Cuba Gains Ground: US Solidarity Rallies as UN Debates Blockade – Breaking News
New York City – A powerful wave of solidarity washed over Cuba’s delegation this week as Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez addressed supporters in Manhattan during the high-level segment of the 80th session of the UN General Assembly. The event, brimming with chants of “Cuba Yes, Block NO!”, underscores a growing chorus of voices demanding an end to the decades-long US embargo and Cuba’s removal from the State Department’s list of alleged state sponsors of terrorism. This breaking news comes as the UN General Assembly has, for the 30th time this week, heard calls for the lifting of the blockade.
Foreign Minister Rodríguez Addresses Supporters, Reaffirms Cuba’s Stance
Speaking to a packed theater, Foreign Minister Rodríguez expressed gratitude for the consistent support from the American people, a sentiment echoed by activists and organizers. He detailed Cuba’s position on key international issues, notably reiterating strong support for the Palestinian people and forcefully condemning what he termed “Israeli genocide in Gaza,” repeating “Free Palestine!” three times to thunderous applause. The Foreign Minister also directly addressed the crippling effects of the US blockade, calling its continued enforcement “illegal, arbitrary and unfair.”
Rodríguez vehemently defended Cuba’s internationally recognized medical missions, currently deploying 24,000 professionals to 56 countries. He dismissed accusations of coercion or impropriety as a “fierce propaganda campaign” designed to discredit Cuba’s humanitarian efforts, emphasizing their alignment with UN objectives. “Anyone who knows Cuba understands that we are not intimidated,” he stated, firmly committing to maintaining these vital healthcare partnerships.
The US Blockade: A Historical Overview
The US embargo against Cuba, initially imposed in 1960 following the Cuban Revolution, has evolved over the decades, becoming one of the longest-lasting economic sanctions in modern history. Originally intended to pressure the Cuban government, the blockade has significantly impacted the island’s economy, limiting access to essential goods, medicine, and technology. While there have been periods of slight easing, particularly during the Obama administration, the embargo remains largely in place, with recent administrations tightening restrictions and adding Cuba to the list of state sponsors of terrorism – a designation widely criticized as politically motivated.
“Unmasking the Lies”: Activists Rally Against the Embargo
Manolo de los Santos, Executive Director of The People’s Forum, the organization coordinating the solidarity event, delivered a passionate call to action. “We will fight against the blockade here in the belly of the beast, which here in the heart of the empire we will unmask the lies,” he declared, specifically naming Donald Trump and Marco Rubio as key figures driving the policy. De los Santos characterized the blockade not as a policy, but as “an economic war to destroy” the Cuban people, a “calculated act of cruelty and collective punishment.”
His words resonated with attendees, highlighting the human cost of the embargo. The event wasn’t solely focused on political statements; a vibrant cultural performance featuring Kindred Business and Desiree Jaha, including a moving rendition of “Guantanamera,” underscored the resilience and spirit of the Cuban people.
Beyond the Headlines: The Impact of the Terrorism Designation
The inclusion of Cuba on the US list of state sponsors of terrorism, a designation made in January 2021, has had far-reaching consequences. It complicates financial transactions, discourages foreign investment, and hinders Cuba’s ability to access international aid and loans. Critics argue that the designation is based on unsubstantiated claims and serves primarily to further isolate Cuba on the world stage. The move has been widely condemned by international organizations and governments, who view it as a politically motivated attempt to undermine Cuba’s socialist system.
The ongoing debate at the UN, coupled with the outpouring of support in New York, signals a growing international momentum to challenge the US policy towards Cuba. As Foreign Minister Rodríguez affirmed, Cuba remains steadfast in its commitment to international solidarity and will continue to provide medical assistance to those in need, regardless of external pressures. The message is clear: Cuba will not be silenced, and the call for an end to the blockade is growing louder.
This story is developing. Check back with Archyde for updates as the UN General Assembly session continues and the international community weighs in on the future of US-Cuba relations.
