In an interview with Radio France Internationale (RFI), the diplomat stated that the United States has no right to prevent oil from reaching the island nation and that, to justify its illegal measure, it resorts to lies, defining Cuba as a threat.

On January 29, President Donald Trump signed an executive order labeling the small Caribbean country an “unusual and extraordinary” threat to the national security of the world’s leading military and economic power.

Vaillant stated that the energy embargo is a long-standing issue, intended to intensify a blockade that has been in place for over 60 years and expand its extraterritorial reach, which has been condemned worldwide.

Regarding the recent arrival of a Russian oil tanker, he considered it a relief, but insisted on Cuba’s right to import hydrocarbons without obstacles and without suppliers being threatened by Washington.

According to the ambassador, his country has promoted a shift in its energy matrix in recent years, focusing on solar photovoltaic energy.

He also emphasized that the main problems facing Cuba stem from the US economic, commercial, and financial blockade and its intensification under the Trump Administration.

However, he reiterated that Cuba is willing to engage in dialogue with its neighbor on issues affecting the bilateral relationship, but without negotiating its sovereignty, independence, or political system.

Regarding a potential attack against the island, Vaillant stated on RFI that Cuba is not seeking war, but would defend itself if it were to occur, adding that the worst possible scenario would be to see bombs falling on a charming, resilient, and fighting people.

abo/arm/mem/wmr