Global artists, intellectuals sign petition against U.S. blockade of Cuba

A global chorus of over 8,800 intellectuals and artists is raising their voices in solidarity with Cuba, condemning the enduring U.S. economic, commercial, and financial blockade. This widespread support coincides with discussions at the United Nations General Assembly regarding the immediate and total elimination of the blockade.

The "No to aggression against Cuba. International Manifesto against the advance of fascism in Latin America" platform, hosted at www.solidaridadsinbloqueo.org, serves as the central hub for these signatures. It has also attracted backing from more than 560 organizations across at least 58 countries, underscoring a broad international front against the U.S. policy.

The manifesto details recent U.S. actions, including labeling Cuba an "extraordinary and unusual" threat to its security, accusing it of harboring terrorist organizations, and alleging the acquisition of offensive weapons. It points to the "permanent economic sabotage" of 67 years, exacerbated by a total blockade on fuel imports and pressure on third-country companies to cease business with Cuba. Signatories note that Cuba has received only one oil shipment in six months and faces severe financial transaction difficulties, characterizing these actions as genocidal due to their direct impact on the Cuban population.

The document traces the historical roots of U.S. policy towards Cuba, noting that since the early 19th century, U.S. foreign policy has consistently viewed Cuba as a strategic linchpin for controlling Latin America and the Caribbean. This ambition, exemplified by John Adams's early correspondence, has persisted through various administrations. The "ripe fruit" doctrine, which posited Cuba's inevitable fall into U.S. hands upon its separation from Spain, has guided U.S. policy for centuries. The article emphasizes the striking similarity between past imperial designs and current strategies against Cuba.