By Arnold August on March 5, 2016.
The issue of human rights in the context of Cuba–US relations has erupted once again on the eve of Obama’s visit to the island on March 21 and 22, 2016. In Geneva on March 2, the Deputy Secretary of State of the US State Department, Antony J. Blinken, issued the National Statement at the Human Rights Council. (more…)
By Arnold August on February 25, 2016
The closing of Guantanamo prison and the return of Guantanamo Bay to Cuba is one of the most heated subjects of Cuba–US relations. It is taking on even more significance as Obama’s trip to Cuba on March 21–22 approaches. (more…)
By Arnold August on January 20, 2016
At the annual State of the Union address on January 13, 2016, President Obama reiterated his Cuba policy regarding Cuba-US relations. He said: (more…)
By Arnold August on December 25, 2015
On December 7, 2015, after the December 6 elections, the White House indicated in a press briefing:
“What is clear is that the people of Venezuela have expressed their overwhelming desire for a change in direction. And what is necessary is for all of the parties involved to engage in a dialogue about the future of that country mindful of the election results. (more…)
By Arnold August
Under sharp questioning by reporters at a daily press briefing on March 10, 2015 – one day after Barack Obama’s Executive Order against Venezuela – U.S. Department of State spokesperson Jen Psaki declared, “The goal of these sanctions is to persuade the Government of Venezuela to change their behavior.” (more…)
By Arnold August on November 12, 2015
Photo: Bill Hackwell
In an online interview with an alternative US-based website published on January 7, 2015, I was asked about my take on the seeming rapprochement between the United States and Cuba. With regard to the December 17, 2014 announcement, I responded: (more…)
September 25, 2015
Photo: Ramon Frontera
After three days of intense activities, people coming from cities across the United States, Puerto Rico and Canada, returned to their respective homes with the commitment to continue to fight for the end of the criminal U.S. blockade against Cuba. Also among those attending were Cubans residing in the United States. (more…)
By Arnold August ON September 9, 2015
At the August 14, 2015 flag-raising ceremony in Havana, Secretary of State John Kerry stated “we remain convinced the people of Cuba would be best served by genuine democracy.” This US promotion of democracy for Cuba is explicitly or implicitly referring to freedom of the press, among other features. (more…)