US Accuses Cuba of Pressure Campaign Ahead of UN Vote
Source reports published 21 Oct 2026, 10:00 am – 22 Oct 2026, 4:08 am AEST
The United States alleges that Cuba is attempting to influence votes in the UN General Assembly by threatening countries with economic sanctions and diplomatic pressure. This follows accusations of coercion and attempts to sway resolutions calling for an end to the US embargo on Cuba.
What happened
- The United States accused Cuba of employing coercive tactics, including threatening countries with tariffs, visa restrictions, and denial of visas, in an effort to secure votes against a UN resolution seeking to end the US embargo on Cuba.
- According to Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and US Ambassador to the UN Michael Waltz were leading this campaign, which began months prior.
- US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and US Ambassador to the UN Michael Waltz accused Cuban diplomats of harassment and intimidation at a UN event.
- The US also alleged that Cuban nationals fighting for Russia were not being paid and that the money was going to the Cuban government, citing allegations from Ukraine.
- These accusations occurred amid escalating tensions ahead of the UN vote on October 27 or 28.
Original reporting
- Al Jazeera: Cuba accuses US of threatening countries ahead of UN embargo vote
2026-10-21T00:00:00+00:00 - Fox News: Cuban American lawmakers hail Raúl Castro arrest warrant, vow to keep fighting for Cuba’s freedom
2026-10-21T18:08:08+00:00