Venezuela Condemns the Blockade and Expresses Solidarity at the UN

October 30, 2024

Once again the US along with Israel, its partner in genocide against the Palestinian people, were just about alone against the annual vote condemning the blockade of Cuba at the UN.

In a strong statement from the General Assembly of the United Nations, Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro condemned the economic blockade imposed on Cuba by the United States, reaffirming Venezuela’s unwavering support for the Caribbean island. On this occasion, 187 countries joined together to demand the lifting of sanctions that severely affect the Cuban people.

“Today, for the thirty-second time, 187 countries raise our voices in the General Assembly to demand the lifting of U.S. sanctions. Cuba deserves, and has earned, the right to choose its path to develop in peace and with total freedom,” Maduro declared in his speech.

The Venezuelan leader extended his solidarity to President Miguel Díaz-Canel and General of Armies Raúl Castro, as well as to all Cubans who continue to fight for their sovereignty and well-being. “On behalf of Venezuela, I express my willingness to continue opening paths and creating formulas that allow us to advance in the search for concrete solutions that lead us to the integral well-being of our nations,” he added.

Maduro emphasized the importance of unity among Latin American and Caribbean peoples to face the challenges imposed by hegemonic powers. “A new world is possible, and free peoples will build it. We will not allow sanctions and blockades to divide our struggle for justice and self-determination,” he asserted.

Venezuela’s statement adds to a long history of mutual support between the two countries, which have faced the onslaught of imperialism together. The international community has reiterated its rejection of the aggressive policies of the United States, which not only affect Cuba but also seek to destabilize sovereign nations like Venezuela.

Javier Milei Removes Foreign Minister Following its Support for UN Resolution Against U.S. Blockade

Milei and Diana Mondino in better times

Meanwhile in an unexpected turn of political events in Argentina, President Javier Milei decided to dismiss his Foreign Minister Diana Mondino following the UN vote, where Argentina joined 186 countries in rejecting the blockade imposed on Cuba.

This decision was confirmed by presidential spokesperson Manuel Adorni, who announced that Gerardo Werthein, the current Argentine ambassador in Washington, D.C., will take over the position.

The vote, which reflects the long history of solidarity between Argentina and Cuba, has been a point of tension in Milei’s government, which has shown a clear alignment with the policies of the United States and Israel.

However, Argentine diplomacy had maintained its commitment to historical causes, such as supporting the Caribbean island in its struggle against the blockade.

On social media, Milei hinted at his dissatisfaction by sharing a tweet from PRO deputy Sabrina Ajmechet, who expressed: “Proud of a government that neither supports nor is complicit with dictators. Long live #CubaLibre.”

This message seems to have set the course for Argentine foreign policy, prioritizing a critical stance towards Cuba and its leaders. Despite this change in the foreign ministry, it is important to remember that Cuba has been a steadfast ally of Argentina in its claim for sovereignty over the Malvinas Islands.

Over the years, the Cuban government has strongly supported Argentina’s cause in international forums, reinforcing ties between both nations. The recent vote in New York serves as a reminder of the overwhelming support Cuba receives annually at the UN to end the blockade.

Similarly, Argentina has garnered support from the Decolonization Committee for Britain to recognize its sovereignty over the Malvinas and open a dialogue on this matter.

With Mondino’s dismissal, questions arise regarding how this decision will affect bilateral relations between Argentina and Cuba. International observers expect that Cuba will continue to support Argentina’s sovereign claim despite internal diplomatic tensions.

This episode could serve as a call for reflection for the new Argentine government on the importance of maintaining a coherent and supportive stance in international matters.

Source: Telesur