United Nations, New York, 14 October 2026. - Cuba’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Ernesto Soberón Guzmán, denounced the grave impact of the intensification of the economic, commercial and financial blockade imposed by the United States against Cuba on the human rights of its population, during the interactive dialogue with UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, as part of its 81st session of the General Assembly Third Committee.
In his speech, the Cuban diplomat acknowledged the genuine concern expressed by the High Commissioner about the consequences of that policy, which causes widespread harm to the population, endangers human lives and constitutes a flagrant, massive and systematic violation of human rights. Likewise, he appreciated his repeated calls to end this collective punishment, whose repercussions affect especially the most vulnerable sectors of society.
Soberón Guzmán recalled that the High Commissioner himself had recognized, months before, the effects of the fuel restrictions imposed since early 2026 and the reinforcement of the US extraterritorial measures. In this context, he denounced that the lack of essential medical supplies and medicines is causing the deaths of children in Cuba, while tens of thousands of patients have not been able to undergo surgery due to the limitations of electricity and medical resources.
The Permanent Representative stressed that the consequences of blockade go beyond any political consideration and are seen in concrete damage to the life and wellbeing of the Cuban population. He reaffirmed that Cuba will continue to denounce this policy, with the support of the UN system and the international community, and demanding the end of the measures that hinder the full enjoyment of the human rights of its people.
Likewise, the Ambassador congratulated Volker Türk on his appointment to a second term and reiterated Cuba’s readiness to strengthen cooperation with United Nations human rights mechanisms, based on a respectful and constructive dialogue on matters of mutual interest. He also reaffirmed his country’s support for the mandate of the High Commissioner and his Office, in accordance with General Assembly resolution 48/141.
Finally, Soberón Guzmán reaffirmed that, despite the difficult circumstances imposed by the intensification of the US blockade, Cuba will continue to work for the promotion and protection of all human rights, while continuing to denounce a policy that violates fundamental rights and endangers the lives of its population.
Permanent Mission of Cuba to the United Nations.