New York, April 27, 2026 – Permanent Representative of Cuba to the United Nations, Ambassador Ernesto Soberón Guzmán, addressed the Security Council’s open debate on maritime security, highlighting the strategic relevance of the topic and its global implications, particularly for developing countries and small island states.
The Cuban diplomat warned of the negative impact of the United States government’s restrictions on Cuba’s maritime trade, especially measures aimed at preventing the supply of fuel. He stated that these coercive and extraterritorial provisions are intended to increase economic pressure on the country, affecting not only Cuba but also third states and companies.
In this regard, the Ambassador condemned acts of piracy and terrorism against oil tankers and their crews in the Caribbean Sea, which—he said—violate international law, the law of the sea, and freedom of navigation and trade. He further noted that these acts constitute a direct threat to international maritime security.
Soberón Guzmán reaffirmed Cuba’s sovereign right to trade freely with any nation, without interference or foreign pressure. He added that the economic, commercial, and financial blockade imposed by the United States hampers freedom of trade and navigation, undermines the sovereignty of states, and limits their aspirations for sustainable development, in clear violation of international law.
In his speech, he also referred to the escalating tensions in the Middle East, warning of the additional dangers they pose to maritime safety. He reiterated the need to end aggression, respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of states, and favor dialogue and cooperation as means to preserve international peace and stability.
Finally, Cuba’s Permanent Representative highlighted the importance of the International Maritime Organization in promoting navigation safety and reiterated Cuba’s call to foster international cooperation to address common challenges, ensure a safe and sustainable maritime environment, and secure respect for international law, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.
Statement below
Cuba’s Remarks at the Security Council Open Debate on Maritime Safety
(Cubaminrex-MisiónCubaONU)