Cuba's Foreign Minister, Bruno Rodríguez Parrilla, has leveled accusations against a Latin American government, claiming it is operating under the influence of the United States to sway regional countries in altering their stance on the upcoming United Nations vote concerning the embargo on Cuba.
In a press conference held in Havana, Rodríguez Parrilla highlighted what he described as a diplomatic operation aimed at undermining the international support that Cuba traditionally garners for its resolution against the embargo. This resolution is set to be discussed and voted on in the UN General Assembly on October 27 and 28.
Rodríguez indicated that a Latin American nation is allegedly participating in efforts to persuade other states to shift from their usual positions, accusing this government of acting against its national interests to appease Washington.
However, when directly queried about the specific nation involved, Rodríguez Parrilla declined to disclose its identity.
He stated, "There is a Latin American country that, under instructions and pressure from the United States government, probably against its people's will, is clandestinely trying to sell others on its betrayal."
The accusation has piqued international media interest. When asked by an AFP journalist to identify the country, Rodríguez chose not to name it, opting instead to criticize the overarching influence of the U.S.
"I prefer to address the one who commands, who instructs, the true author, the real executioner who applies the collective punishment," he remarked.
This public allegation of political subordination and betrayal was made without offering evidence to identify the government in question or verify the attributed maneuvers.
Diplomatic Showdown Ahead of UN Vote
The foreign minister's statements come shortly before a new General Assembly vote on Cuba's annual resolution calling for the end of the U.S.-imposed economic, commercial, and financial embargo.
Havana has historically secured broad majorities supporting its resolution over the past three decades, although these votes are non-binding and do not compel Washington to change its policies.
Rodríguez Parrilla argued that the United States is conducting a diplomatic offensive to diminish this support, exerting pressure on governments traditionally favorable to Cuba.
According to him, Washington seeks to sway some states to change their votes or alter their statements during the debate.
Controversial US-Hosted Forum
The Cuban foreign minister also linked this strategy to a United Nations meeting held on October 19, organized by U.S. ambassador Mike Waltz, where Cuban political exiles like José Daniel Ferrer and Luis Manuel Otero Alcántara spoke out against the Cuban regime's repression.
Rodríguez Parrilla dismissed the meeting as a "farce," asserting it aimed to distract international attention from the U.S. sanctions and discredit Cuba ahead of the vote. However, the meeting spotlighted issues such as political imprisonment, torture, and restrictions on fundamental freedoms in Cuba, as discussed by forum participants.
Declining International Support
The foreign minister's allegations arise as Cuba's regime faces dwindling international backing for its resolution. In October 2024, the resolution received 187 favorable votes; by 2025, this number fell to 165, with seven countries opposing and 12 abstaining. A special session in July 2026 saw support drop to 136 votes, with nine against and 30 abstentions.
One notable diplomatic shift includes Argentina's change under President Javier Milei, who voted against the resolution in 2025, departing from its longstanding pro-Havana stance.
On October 14, CiberCuba reported Rodríguez Parrilla's accusations against Marco Rubio after the State Department confirmed a phone conversation between the Secretary of State and Salvadoran President Nayib Bukele addressing shared priorities at the UN, including the Cuban issue.
Nevertheless, the foreign minister did not specify whether the accused Latin American country is among those that have already changed their votes, are considering doing so, or are attempting to influence others.
The identity of the government Rodríguez Parrilla labeled a "lackey" remains unknown as Havana seeks to regain support and Washington aims to diminish it ahead of the crucial vote.
Key Questions and Answers on Cuba's UN Embargo Vote
What is the purpose of Cuba's annual UN resolution?
Cuba's annual UN resolution seeks to end the economic, commercial, and financial embargo imposed by the United States.
How has international support for Cuba's resolution changed over the years?
International support for Cuba's resolution has decreased from 187 favorable votes in 2024 to 136 in a 2026 session, with increasing opposition and abstentions.
Which country's stance notably changed in recent years?
Argentina, under President Javier Milei, shifted its stance by voting against the resolution in 2025 after years of supporting Cuba.
What allegations did Bruno Rodríguez Parrilla make against the United States?
Rodríguez Parrilla accused the U.S. of orchestrating a diplomatic offensive to reduce support for Cuba's resolution and pressuring governments to change their votes.