Kingstown, May 20, 2026. — The National Labour Congress of St. Vincent and the Grenadines expressed its firm solidarity with the people and Government of Cuba in response to the recent escalation of measures imposed by the United States, which have been internationally described as a tightening of the energy blockade against the island.
In a letter addressed to the Embassy of Cuba in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, the President of the National Labour Congress, Elroy Boucher, expressed deep concern over the executive order issued on January 29, 2026, by the U.S. Government, declaring Cuba an “unusual and extraordinary threat” and authorizing tariffs on countries supplying oil to the Caribbean nation.
The Vincentian trade union organization warned that these measures have worsened the economic and social difficulties in Cuba, contributing to fuel shortages, nationwide blackouts, transportation disruptions, and greater hardship for Cuban families.
“Reliable access to energy is essential for hospitals, schools, water systems, food distribution, and other critical services,” the document states.
The National Labour Congress also reaffirmed its rejection of unilateral coercive measures and defended the right of peoples to sovereignty, development, and dignity.
It also highlighted the historic friendship and cooperation between Cuba and St. Vincent and the Grenadines, underscoring the positive impact of scholarships granted to Vincentian students in Cuba and the contribution of Cuban medical professionals to strengthening the country’s healthcare system.
The organization concluded by expressing its hope for an end to the measures that increase the suffering of the Cuban people and reiterated its support for the principles of international law and respect for Cuba’s sovereignty (Embassy of Cuba to St. Vincent and the Grenadines/Cubaminrex)