Cuba calls US blockade 'genocide' at UN but reiterates willingness for dialogue

HAVANA – Cuba's Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez forcefully denounced the United States' economic blockade against the island nation at the United Nations, labeling it an "act of war and genocide." Speaking before the UN Security Council, Rodríguez asserted that the severe energy blockade applied by the U.S. subjects the Cuban population to conditions that threaten their integrity and existence.

Rodríguez's remarks came during a UN Security Council session hosted by China, which holds the council's monthly presidency. He specifically criticized the U.S. Department of Justice's recent indictment of former Cuban President Raúl Castro on charges related to the downing of two civilian aircraft by the exile organization Hermanos al Rescate three decades ago. The Cuban minister characterized these charges as "politically motivated, fraudulent, and designed to deceive" Americans and foreigners, aiming to justify a potential military action against Cuba.

The Cuban diplomat accused the White House of openly seeking a regime change through what he termed "logistical asphyxiation." He equated the U.S. "oil and energy siege" to a naval blockade, which he described as an act of war and genocide. Rodríguez highlighted the "cruel and indiscriminate collective punishment" inflicted upon the civilian population, citing impacts on public health indicators such as a doubled infant mortality rate and a significant reduction in life expectancy.

Despite these severe accusations, Rodríguez emphasized that Havana remains politically open to establishing channels of conversation with Washington. The Cuban government maintains its willingness to engage in dialogue, even as it condemns the U.S. policies it argues are detrimental to its people.