EU criticizes U.S. embargo on Cuba, urges island to drop support for Russia

The European Union voiced strong criticism of the United States' long-standing embargo against Cuba during a session at the UN General Assembly. Stavros Lambrinidis, head of the EU delegation to the UN, stated that while the bloc respects international law in all contexts, it regrets Cuba's stance on Russia's war in Ukraine. He urged Cuba to refrain from supporting Russian aggression and to take measures to prevent its citizens from joining Russian military forces in the conflict.

Lambrinidis acknowledged the U.S. blockade's "negative humanitarian effect" on the Cuban people and its detrimental impact on EU economic interests, noting that it also violates international trade norms. The EU reaffirmed its support for a political solution and dialogue with the U.S. based on international law, though he conceded that humanitarian aid alone would not resolve Cuba's crisis, emphasizing that "important sovereign decisions can no longer be postponed."

Colombia's deputy representative to the UN, Raúl Sánchez, reiterated his country's "categorical" rejection of the blockade and expressed solidarity with the Cuban people facing the intensification of unilateral coercive measures. Haiti's representative, Ericq Pierre, speaking for Caribbean member states, stressed the region's desire to be free from wars and conflicts and affirmed their commitment to multilateralism and international law.

The UN General Assembly annually debates the U.S. embargo at Cuba's request, typically passing non-binding resolutions calling for its end. This year's discussion occurred amidst Cuba's severe energy crisis, worsened by a U.S. oil blockade and sanctions targeting individuals and entities supporting the Cuban government or operating in key sectors. The UN has classified these measures as contrary to international law.