Havana, Cuba – The Cuban government has attacked the annual report issued by the US State Department on human rights, deeming it lacking in credibility and aimed at justifying US policies toward the island. Chief among these policies are the decades-long economic sanctions.
In an official statement, the Cuban Foreign Ministry asserted that the US report represents “cheap political propaganda” seeking to tarnish Cuba’s image before the international community. Moreover, it provides cover for the continuation of what it described as the “collective punishment” inflicted on the Cuban people as a result of the embargo and economic sanctions.
Havana emphasized that the United States continues to use human rights as a tool for political pressure and interference in the internal affairs of other countries. It asserted that Washington ignores the impact of sanctions on the living conditions and economic situation of Cuban citizens. Meanwhile, it simultaneously criticizes other nations.
The statement added that the Cuban government rejects the accusations contained in the US report, asserting that such reports are issued unilaterally and reflect the political positions of the US administration. Furthermore, these reports are not based on objective or independent assessments.
These statements come amid ongoing tensions between Washington and Havana. There are persistent disagreements regarding economic sanctions and human rights issues. Cuba continues to call for an end to the embargo imposed on it. It considers the embargo the primary cause of the deteriorating economic and humanitarian situation within the country.
