Why is Russia Condemning US Restrictions on Cuba?
Synopsis
In a strong condemnation, Russia has denounced the latest US restrictions on Cuba, labeling them as unacceptable and a threat to international peace. This article delves into the implications of these sanctions and the responses from both Russian and Cuban officials, highlighting a potential humanitarian crisis and geopolitical tensions.
Key Takeaways
Russia has condemned the US sanctions against Cuba as unacceptable.
The sanctions threaten to impose tariffs on oil suppliers to Cuba .
Cuba has declared an international emergency in response to the sanctions.
There are concerns about a potential humanitarian crisis in Cuba .
Mexico is exploring ways to support Cuba amidst the restrictions.
Moscow, Jan 31 (NationPress) Russia has issued a strong denunciation of the recent restrictive measures enacted by the United States against Cuba, according to a statement from Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova on Saturday.
Zakharova's comments were in response to a media inquiry about a recent US executive order, published on Thursday, which threatened to levy tariffs on nations that supply oil to Cuba.
She emphasized that unilateral sanctions against sovereign and independent nations, implemented bypassing the United Nations and its Charter, as well as other international legal norms, are completely unacceptable, as reported by Xinhua news agency.
Zakharova described the US action as yet another extreme instance of Washington's enduring strategy of maximum pressure on Cuba, aimed at economically constraining the Caribbean nation.
In parallel, Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez Parrilla declared on Friday that Cuba has recognized an international emergency in light of the recent executive order threatening tariffs issued by US President Donald Trump.
Rodriguez expressed through a post on X that the people of Cuba, backed by the international community, perceive the current situation involving the US government as an unusual and extraordinary threat, primarily stemming from the US anti-Cuban neo-fascist right wing.
He further stated that this threat jeopardizes not only the national security and foreign policy of all nations but also global peace and security, along with humanity's survival amidst nuclear threats and climate change.
Trump's executive order, issued on Thursday, threatens to impose tariffs on any goods entering the United States from nations that sell or provide oil to Cuba.
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum announced on Friday that her government will seek alternative means to support Cuba following Trump's decree threatening to impose tariffs on countries supplying oil to the island.
During her daily press briefing, Sheinbaum reaffirmed Mexico's commitment to sovereignty and the principle of self-determination for peoples, cautioning that the US action could lead to a humanitarian crisis in Cuba by impacting essential services like healthcare and food supply.
She indicated that she has directed Foreign Minister Juan Ramon de la Fuente to engage with the US State Department to gather more information about the decree and communicate Mexico's concerns regarding the potential regional repercussions.
Point of View
The potential for humanitarian crises looms large. It's crucial to consider the implications of unilateral sanctions on global peace and stability, and we must remain vigilant about the voices of those affected.
NationPress
4 Jul 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the latest US restrictions on Cuba?
The recent US restrictions include tariffs threatened against countries that supply oil to Cuba, as outlined in an executive order by President Trump.
How has Russia responded to these restrictions?
Russia has condemned the US restrictions, labeling them as unilateral sanctions that violate international law and threaten the sovereignty of Cuba.
What is Cuba's position regarding the US sanctions?
Cuba has declared an international emergency in response to the US sanctions, describing them as an unusual threat to their national security and appealing for international solidarity.
What impact could these sanctions have on Cuba?
The sanctions could lead to a humanitarian crisis in Cuba, affecting essential services like healthcare and food supply.
What actions is Mexico taking in this situation?
Mexico is seeking alternatives to support Cuba and has expressed concerns about the potential repercussions of US sanctions in the region.
