In his interview with Musavat TV ahead of the October 28 United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) vote on a resolution on the US blockade, to which Prensa Latina Had access to, Valdes stated that the energy siege against his country is a form of collective punishment that directly impacts the Cuban people’s living conditions.

The Cuban ambassador noted that the negative effects extend to power generation, hospital services, schools, transportation, water distribution, agricultural production, and the availability of food and medicine.

The diplomat also condemned the intensification of extraterritorial measures and sanctions targeting companies, banks, and suppliers from third countries that maintain legitimate relations with Cuba.

The official explained the lack of progress toward a serious dialogue between Havana and Washington, and described US restrictions on oil supplies to the island as an unjustified collective punishment against the Cuban people, given their impact on essential services and the population’s living conditions.

He talked of fuel restrictions on hospital operations, blackouts, and medical care.

According to the figures he provided, the infant mortality rate has risen to nine deaths per thousand live births, while about 96,500 people are awaiting surgery and 32,000 pregnant women are waiting for an ultrasound scan.

The ambassador stated, “Cuba remains open to engaging in talks with the administration of US President, without preconditions, on any subject, and based on the principles of mutual respect, sovereign equality, and non-interference in internal affairs.”

Valdes described the relations between Cuba and Azerbaijan as excellent and capable of further expansion, noting that they are rooted in political cooperation, historical ties dating back to the Soviet era, and mutual respect between the two nations.

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