“UN General Assembly Defeats US Cuba Embargo”

UN General Assembly Votes to End US Economic Embargo on Cuba

The United Nations General Assembly has voted overwhelmingly in favor of ending the economic, commercial, and financial embargo imposed by the United States on Cuba. The resolution, titled “Necessity of Ending the Economic, Commercial and Financial Embargo Imposed by the United States of America against Cuba,” expressed concern about the adverse effects of the embargo on the Cuban people and called on all states to refrain from implementing such restrictive measures. The vote saw 187 countries in favor, with only the United States and Israel opposing and Ukraine abstaining.

US Justifies Its Position

Paul Folmsbee, the Representative of the United States, explained his country’s vote against the resolution. He stated that the US supports the Cuban people’s pursuit of a future with respect for human rights and freedoms. Sanctions, according to Folmsbee, are part of the US’ broader effort to encourage Cuba to advance democracy and human rights. He also highlighted that the US provides exemptions and authorizations for exports of food, medicines, and other humanitarian goods to Cuba. The US opposes the resolution and urges the Cuban government to listen to the aspirations of its people.

Cuba Denounces the Blockade

Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez Parrilla addressed the General Assembly, stating that the more than 60-year-old US blockade violates the rights of the Cuban people. He described the adverse effects of the embargo, including shortages of goods, long queues, high prices, and difficulties in food production. Rodríguez Parrilla criticized the US for preventing Cuba from acquiring medical supplies and pharmaceuticals directly from the US market, leading to inflated prices and the use of less-effective generic drugs. He emphasized that the blockade is an act of economic warfare and called it unacceptable. The foreign minister also expressed solidarity with the Palestinian people and criticized the US for pressuring banks worldwide not to deal with Cuba.

International Support for Ending the Embargo

Several countries, including Gabon and Chile, voiced their support for ending the economic embargo on Cuba. They argued that the embargo violates international law, hinders Cuba’s social and economic development, and negatively impacts the well-being of the Cuban people. The representatives reaffirmed their countries’ commitment to opposing unilateral sanctions and called for an end to the embargo.

With the overwhelming support of the General Assembly, the resolution highlights the global consensus in favor of ending the US economic embargo on Cuba.