Cuba calls US blockade 'collective punishment' at UN General Assembly

Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez Parrilla used his address at the 81st United Nations General Assembly General Debate to denounce the United States' long-standing blockade of Cuba, describing it as "collective punishment" designed to provoke a humanitarian crisis.

Speaking on Saturday, Rodriguez said Cuba has endured what he called a multidimensional aggression from Washington spanning nearly seven decades. He said the measures had become more severe since January 2026, when, he alleged, an energy blockade was imposed that uses intimidation and coercion to stop other countries from exporting fuel to the island.

The foreign minister characterised that fuel restriction as a naval blockade, which he noted is defined under international law as an act of war.

Rodriguez rejected the US position that Cuba represents a threat, saying the country is peaceful. "Cuba is not a threat; the blockade is!" he declared.

Despite the tensions, he said Havana remains open to talks with Washington to resolve bilateral differences. He listed seriousness, respect, sovereign equality and observance of international law as the basis for any dialogue, adding that Cuba seeks no interference in internal affairs and no preconditions.

The remarks came during the general debate of the UN's 81st session, where member states present their positions on global issues.