UN Experts Raise Alarm Over US Actions Toward Cuba

The experts stressed that disputes between states should be addressed through diplomacy and international legal mechanisms rather than measures that could be perceived as coercive.

A group of United Nations experts has voiced serious concern over what it describes as an escalating campaign of pressure by the United States against Cuba, warning that recent actions and statements could have far-reaching consequences for international law and global stability.

The experts argue that attempts to influence the political direction of a sovereign nation through threats, coercive measures and economic pressure raise fundamental questions about respect for national sovereignty. According to their statement, efforts aimed at altering the constitutional order of another country resemble practices that the international community has long sought to move beyond.

Particular concern was expressed over recent remarks attributed to US President Donald Trump and the announcement of what has been described as the "Donroe Doctrine," a policy that reportedly asserts US predominance in the Western Hemisphere. The experts said such declarations have heightened fears about growing tensions between Washington and Havana.

Economic restrictions and legal actions draw criticism

The UN experts linked the latest developments to a broader pattern of measures that have affected Cuba for many years. They pointed to the long-standing US embargo, Cuba's designation as a state sponsor of terrorism, restrictions affecting fuel supplies and sanctions that can impact third countries engaging with the island nation.

The experts also highlighted a recent federal indictment against former Cuban President Raúl Castro, describing it as part of a wider effort that could undermine Cuba's sovereignty. They argued that using domestic judicial proceedings against current or former heads of state as a foreign policy tool raises concerns about compliance with principles contained in the United Nations Charter.

In their view, such actions risk creating precedents that could weaken international norms designed to protect sovereign equality among nations. The experts stressed that disputes between states should be addressed through diplomacy and international legal mechanisms rather than measures that could be perceived as coercive.

Humanitarian impact and calls for international action

Beyond the political and legal concerns, the experts warned that recent restrictions have had significant humanitarian consequences for ordinary Cubans. They noted that limitations on oil imports have contributed to energy shortages and recurring blackouts across the country.

These disruptions affect daily life in many ways, including access to healthcare, transportation, communication and other essential public services. Vulnerable groups such as older people, children and individuals with health conditions are often among those most affected when critical infrastructure comes under strain.

The experts also expressed concern over reports regarding the deployment of the USS Nimitz to the southern Caribbean, arguing that military pressure can further increase tensions in an already sensitive situation.

In their statement, they called on the United States to end threats against Cuba's sovereignty and to withdraw unilateral coercive measures that they believe conflict with international law. They also urged all UN Member States to avoid supporting actions that undermine the principles of sovereign equality and non-intervention.

The experts further appealed to the UN Security Council and the General Assembly to examine the situation closely, arguing that growing tensions involving Cuba have implications that extend beyond the region and touch upon broader questions of international peace, security and respect for the global legal order.

According to the experts, maintaining a fair and stable international system depends on ensuring that all countries, regardless of their size, economic strength or political influence, are able to participate in global affairs without external pressure or coercion.