Full Breakdown
Canada Weighs Its Position on a UN Motion to End the U.S. Embargo on Cuba
By Drooid · · How we work
UN Motion and Canada’s Immediate Decision
The United Nations is set to vote next week on a motion that Cuba has submitted annually since 1992 calling for the termination of the United States’ “economic, commercial and financial embargo.”
Historical Context and Recent U.S. Pressure
The U.S. embargo, in place for six decades, has been a focal point of Cuba’s diplomatic appeals. Since 2020, Cuba has faced an economic crisis marked by fuel shortages and blackouts, which intensified after a U.S. “oil blockade” in January. Washington has also threatened tariffs on nations that sell oil to Cuba and cut Venezuelan shipments earlier in the year. In response, Cuba has repeatedly linked its hardships to the embargo, while critics point to internal inefficiencies of its Communist system.
Official Statements & Responses
- Malmierca added, “We would like to have a normal relationship with the U.S. We are ready for dialogue.”
- He also warned that the United States is “using threats” to influence other countries’ votes.
- The U.S. State Department did not respond to a request for comment.
Human-Rights Criticism
Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International, cited in the reporting, allege that Cuba’s government engages in arbitrary arrests, tortures political prisoners, and restricts media and political parties. These accusations form part of the broader debate over whether the embargo or internal repression is the primary driver of Cuba’s humanitarian challenges.
Key Figures, Numbers and Economic Links
- Cuba produces only 40 % of the fuel it needs, contributing to frequent blackouts that strain health care.
- The Cuban government reports 176 reform measures aimed at expanding the private sector and attracting foreign investment.
- Canada has pledged $13 million in humanitarian aid delivered through international organizations, not directly to the Cuban government.
- Canadian firms—including the National Bank, mining company Sherritt and hotel chain Royalton—faced payment arrears in 2023; Sherritt and Royalton have since ceased Cuban operations, which Havana attributes to U.S. pressure.
- Air Canada and other airlines cancelled flights to Cuba in February due to aviation-fuel shortages.
These elements illustrate the complex interplay of diplomatic positions, economic realities, and human-rights concerns shaping Canada’s approach to the upcoming UN vote on ending the U.S. embargo.