By Armando Hernandez
The Government of Cuba described the recent executive orders of the United States as “international crimes” and “genocidal” that toughen sanctions against the island, in a new episode of diplomatic escalation between both countries.
The Cuban Foreign Minister, Bruno Rodríguez, denounced that “both the economic and energy blockade, and the new extraterritorial coercive measures; as well as the threat of military aggression and the aggression itself are international crimes,” in reference to the provisions adopted by Washington.
Likewise, he considered that it is “cynical and hypocritical” for the US to criticize the internal situation in Cuba. while “he has been trying to devastate the country with an economic war for decades.”
The statements come after the signing of a new executive order by US President Donald Trump, which expands sanctions to almost any person or company, including foreigners, that maintains economic relations with Cuba, especially in strategic sectors such as energy, defense and finance.
This measure includes secondary sanctions and the freezing of assets, which increases international pressure on the Cuban economy.
The decision adds to another executive order issued at the end of January, through which Washington established a tariff scheme against countries that supply oil to the island.
This policy has been interpreted by Havana as an “oil blockade,” in a context in which Cuba faces a severe energy crisis aggravated by the interruption of supplies from Venezuela.
According to the Cuban Government, these actions seek to “subject the population to extreme living conditions,” by limiting access to fuel and affecting basic services.
Experts cited by international media point out that the new sanctions have already contributed to aggravating the fuel shortage and blackouts on the island.
In parallel, Political tension has increased after recent statements by the US presidentwho even suggested possible more forceful actions against Cuba within the framework of its foreign strategy.
Washington has justified the measures by accusing the Cuban government of representing a threat to its national security and of maintaining ties with actors considered hostile.
For its part, the United States has insisted that Havana must negotiate economic and political reforms, while the Cuban Government rejects any conditions, considering that these are internal and sovereign matters.
Although both parties have acknowledged the existence of diplomatic contacts, no concrete progress has been disclosed so far.
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