China Condemns US 'Big Stick' Over Castro Charges, Sanctions on Cuba

Beijing has strongly denounced the United States' recent actions against Cuba, specifically condemning the criminal charges brought against former Cuban leader Raul Castro and the imposition of "unauthorized" sanctions. China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesman, Guo Jiakun, articulated this firm opposition, labeling the U.S. measures as illegal and lacking any foundation in international law or UN Security Council authorization.

Guo Jiakun emphasized China's stance against what it perceives as the "abuse of judicial proceedings" and the use of external pressure against Cuba under any pretext. He urged the United States to cease its "big stick" approach, which includes sanctions and judicial actions, and to abandon its threats of force. Beijing reiterated its unwavering support for Cuba's efforts to safeguard its national sovereignty and dignity, opposing any form of external interference in the island nation's affairs.

The U.S. indictment accuses Castro of ordering the 1996 shootdown of two small planes operated by the exile group Brothers to the Rescue, an incident that resulted in the deaths of four individuals. This legal action represents a significant escalation of tensions, particularly given the historical context of U.S.-Cuba relations as Cold War adversaries. China views these U.S. moves as part of a broader strategy to exert pressure on Cuba's socialist government, a policy that Beijing consistently opposes.

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The United States needs to stop wielding the big stick of sanctions and judicial measures against Cuba, and stop threatening Cuba with force at every turn. China firmly supports Cuba in safeguarding its national sovereignty and national dignity, and opposes external interference.