United Nations, October 28, 2026

The United Nations General Assembly is preparing to vote on a resolution calling for an end to the decades-long United States economic embargo against Cuba, as relations between Washington and Havana enter another period of heightened tension.

The vote comes as the Trump administration increases economic pressure on Cuba, while Cuban officials appeal to the international community for support against restrictions they say are worsening the island’s economic and humanitarian difficulties.

Heated Exchange Between US and Cuban Officials

Tensions escalated at the United Nations on Tuesday when US Ambassador Mike Waltz and Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez became involved in a heated verbal confrontation during a debate over the embargo.

Waltz urged countries to oppose the resolution and criticised Cuba’s government over alleged corruption and its political record. Rodríguez challenged the American envoy’s statements, accusing Washington of spreading false claims and pressuring other countries over the upcoming vote.

The exchange interrupted the normally formal proceedings and highlighted the growing diplomatic divide between the two governments.

Cuba Faces Growing Economic Pressure

Cuba is struggling with severe economic difficulties, including fuel shortages and widespread electricity disruptions. The US administration’s restrictions on countries supplying oil to the island have added further pressure on its already fragile energy system.

Cuban authorities argue that the restrictions affect ordinary citizens by disrupting essential services, transportation, water supplies and communications.

Washington, meanwhile, maintains that its pressure campaign is intended to encourage political change and hold Cuba’s leadership accountable for its policies.

International Support Could Shape the Debate

The United Nations has repeatedly backed resolutions calling for the embargo to end. Last year, 165 countries voted in favour, seven opposed the resolution and 12 abstained.

The 2026 vote is expected to attract considerable international attention, although it remains uncertain whether Washington’s diplomatic efforts will change the positions of key countries.

The General Assembly resolution is not legally binding. Nevertheless, the result could send a strong political message about international opinion on the decades-old dispute.

What Happens Next?

The outcome will offer an indication of how governments around the world view the US approach toward Cuba. However, ending the embargo would require action by the United States, including measures involving Congress.

As the vote approaches, the confrontation between Washington and Havana demonstrates how economic sanctions, political disagreements and humanitarian concerns continue to complicate relations between the two countries.