Dispute between USA and Cuba escalates at UN meeting

Fierce dispute between USA and Cuba

“Do you realize who you’re dealing with?”

Hands are slammed on the tables, there is talk of lies: things got heated during a speech by the US ambassador to the UN.

Representative of the USA and Cuba have applied to the United Nations new York a heated exchange of words ensued. During the US Ambassador’s speech at the U.N.Mike Waltz, the Cuban representatives present initially banged their hands on the tables several times and demanded that the speech be interrupted.

Cuba’s Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez walked towards the lectern where Waltz gave his speech and where the chair of the meeting sat. Waltz shouted phrases like “This is not your communist dictatorship,” “Keep your distance,” and “Do you realize who you’re dealing with? This is America!” Rodríguez accused Waltz of lying. “He not only lies in an arrogant way, but also violates the dignity of this General Assembly,” said the Cuban foreign minister.

The reason for the meeting was a vote at the United Nations on the US embargo that has been in effect for decades Cuba. Waltz delivered sharp criticism of Cuba’s leadership since Fidel Castro to the country representatives.

The UN General Assembly has voted annually since 1992 on a resolution to end the US embargo, which has existed for more than 60 years. The resolution is usually supported by a large majority of states. But it has no binding effect. This year’s vote is expected on Wednesday.

Relations between the USA and Cuba have been tense for decades. The situation has changed under US President Donald Trump further exacerbated by sanctions and an oil embargo.