Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez warned the UN Security Council that US sanctions were pushing the island toward a "humanitarian catastrophe" as tensions with Washington escalate.

Rodriguez told the Security Council that "now should be the time for solidarity" as the Caribbean nation faces a "humanitarian catastrophe." "I call on the international community to mobilize to prevent a humanitarian catastrophe that could be imposed through arms or the fuel blockade," he said.

Ahead of the session in New York, Rodriguez also posted on X saying, "I requested the UN's contribution to halt a US military aggression against Cuba, which would provoke a bloodbath, and to put an end to the threats of using force." He reiterated Havana's "willingness to continue bilateral talks with the US," provided there is no interference in Cuban affairs.

Rodriguez also met UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres to shore up UN support to prevent possible US military action against Cuba. He said worsening fuel shortages and sanctions were deepening Cuba's economic crisis, causing widespread blackouts and shortages of food and medicine.

The appeal comes amid heightened tensions after US President Donald Trump allegedly increased pressure on Havana, including tighter sanctions and the indictment of 94-year-old former Cuban leader Raul Castro over the 1996 downing of two US-based planes. The Trump regime continues to step up political pressure on Cuba in an attempt to bring about regime change.

Last week, Trump told reporters that past US presidents had considered intervening in Cuba but "it looks like I'll be the one that does it." The US has maintained a decadeslong trade embargo on Cuba. However, Washington's recent energy blockade has driven the country to the brink as it grapples with blackouts in Havana lasting 22 hours or more.

Rodriguez refuted that Cuba poses a national security threat to the US. "It is an idea that goes against logic and common sense," he said. "Let Cuba live in peace."

Source: www.dw.com