A vote in favor of this resolution is a vote for a return to peace—a return to the normalization of basic services, food supplies, and universal access to healthcare, education, sports, and culture, as well as the solidarity that has earned the Cuban nation such widespread global recognition.

The association warns of the consequences of the restrictions imposed—by one of the most influential nations in recent years—on commercial, technological, and cultural exchange with Cuba, noting that these limitations also extend to third-party nations, financial institutions, companies, and individuals.

In an official statement, “Raices Cubanas” points out that executive orders issued in January and May of this year—which impose tariffs and sanctions on those who supply oil to the Caribbean nation—have severely restricted the island’s access to fuel.

This, the association states, constitutes an act of aggression; while it may lack the dramatic, explosive nature of the bombings seen in Gaza, its impact on the civilian population—particularly the most vulnerable groups, such as the elderly, people with disabilities, the sick, and families requiring special care—is no less grave.

The text notes that, whether through weapons, deception, coercion, or tariffs, the historical objective of any blockade has been to cut off or minimize a population’s vital supplies, with the aim of paralyzing its economy and forcing its surrender.

For this reason, we consider this strategy not only regrettable but also unjust and contrary to the very principles that those who implement it claim to uphold. The association asserts that Cuba, far from being a nation hostile to the American people, is a country that has fought for its independence and sovereignty—much as the very nation that now acts as the aggressor did in the 18th century.

jdt/arm/mem/car