United Nations, New York, 16 September 2026. - Cuba reaffirmed before the United Nations Security Council that strict respect for international law, the UN Charter, and international humanitarian law constitutes an inescapable obligation for all States, particularly in light of the proliferation and prolongation of armed conflicts, rising geopolitical tensions, and the dangerous arms race.
During the Security Council meeting held under the Arria Formula on respect for international law in situations of armed conflict, Cuba’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Ernesto Soberón Guzmán, recalled that the Charter establishes the duty to settle disputes by peaceful means and to refrain from the threat or use of force against the territorial integrity or political independence of any State. He emphasized that these principles must be applied with equal firmness and without double standards in all circumstances.
The Cuban diplomat denounced the violations of international humanitarian law committed by Israel, the occupying power, against the Palestinian people, and called on the Security Council to fulfill its responsibilities, fully uphold the authority of the United Nations Charter, and ensure respect for and implementation of its decisions. He also emphasized the need to address the root causes and historical background of conflicts and to promote dialogue, solidarity, and international cooperation.
Soberón Guzmán also denounced the United States’ track record of aggression, threats to use force, interference in the internal affairs of other States, and the imposition of unilateral coercive measures. He noted that such practices violate international law, exacerbate conflicts and divisions, and undermine multilateralism, as well as the credibility and legitimacy of the United Nations.
Referring specifically to Cuba, he warned that the U.S. government has intensified its policy against the country to unprecedented levels through the extreme tightening of the blockade, a severe energy blockade, and secondary sanctions with serious extraterritorial impact. He also denounced the public threats of direct military aggression against Cuba and warned that a military adventure would have dire consequences not only for Cuba and the United States, but also for hemispheric and international peace, security, and international stability. Given this situation, he stated, the Security Council should act in strict accordance with its mandate.
The Permanent Representative reiterated that, despite the latent danger of military aggression, Cuba remains committed to peace and dialogue, based on international law, sovereign equality, and mutual respect. He emphasized that lasting peace can only be built on the foundations of justice, through multilateralism and the peaceful settlement of disputes, in full accordance with the purposes and principles of the United Nations Charter.
Permanent Mission of Cuba to the United Nations