In statements to Prensa Latina, Caceres pointed out that, without a doubt, Washington’s announcement of retaliatory tariff increases against countries that supply oil to Cuba is more than a threat; it is a flagrant violation of international law and the 1948 Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

He noted that international law has always prohibited, even in cases of armed conflict, “actions that affect the civilian population” of the belligerent. He emphasized that the graveness of the measure taken by the Donald Trump administration, which adds to the economic, commercial, and financial blockade against Cuba, has led to numerous pronouncements condemning the energy blockade against the island.

Caceres pointed out that, while there are some groups or individuals with controversial political positions on Cuba, the reaction of the international human rights community has been very clear and forceful against Trump’s measure, without any political considerations.

He added that Peruvian human rights organizations have joined in rejection of the U.S. decision, which affects the fundamental rights of the Cuban people.

The Aprodeh leader also said that Latin American governments should boost a regional meeting to address the serious issue of the energy blockade against Cuba; however, he lamented that there are right-wing and far-right leaders in Latin America who oppose the Caribbean nation.

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