In an interview with MS NOW, Cuba’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bruno Rodríguez Parrilla, addressed the impact of the U.S. blockade, bilateral tensions, and the risks of a potential escalation against the island.
The foreign minister stated that U.S. sanctions constitute a form of “collective punishment” against the Cuban people, generating economic hardships and affecting the population’s fundamental rights. According to Rodríguez, no political disagreement between governments can justify measures that cause suffering, uncertainty, and restrictions for millions of people.
Rodríguez also rejected allegations that Cuba poses a threat to U.S. national security. In this regard, he described as unfounded any claims portraying the Caribbean nation as a danger to one of the world’s largest military powers.
Cuba’s top diplomat affirmed that Havana remains willing to engage in dialogue with Washington on all bilateral issues, including compensation claims related to U.S.-owned properties nationalized during the 1960s.
He also highlighted Cuba’s active cooperation with the United States in areas such as counterterrorism, drug trafficking prevention, combating human trafficking, and addressing transnational organized crime.
Regarding bilateral tensions, Rodríguez stated that Cuba will do everything possible to avoid any escalation and expressed confidence that prudence and responsibility will prevail. At the same time, he stressed that the country will defend its independence and sovereignty against any threat.
The foreign minister also described the charges brought against Raúl Castro as “illegal and politically motivated,” defining him as a historic figure with broad national and international recognition.
On economic matters, Rodríguez stated that Cuba will continue advancing its development and improving its social model without yielding to external pressure. He added that if the United States seeks a more dynamic economic relationship with Cuba, it should remove restrictions that hinder trade, investment, and technological exchange between the two countries.
Finally, Rodríguez highlighted Cuba’s scientific achievements, particularly in the biotechnology sector, and argued that current U.S. policy even limits American citizens’ access to medicines and medical technologies developed on the island, including vaccines created during the COVID-19 pandemic.
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