Ukraine Votes Against Ending US Embargo on Cuba Amid Russian War Support

For the first time, Ukraine voted against the UN General Assembly resolution calling for an end to the U.S. economic embargo on Cuba, citing Cuba's support for Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine as the primary reason. Ukrainian officials, including Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha and presidential aide Andriy Yermak, condemned Cuba for allowing thousands of its citizens to fight alongside Russian forces in Ukraine, labeling Cuba's actions as complicity in aggression and a threat to international security. This diplomatic shift follows Ukraine's earlier decision to close its embassy in Havana and downgrade diplomatic ties with Cuba. While the majority of UN member states continue to support the resolution to lift the embargo, several countries, including the U.S., Ukraine, Argentina, Hungary, Israel, Paraguay, and North Macedonia, voted against it, and others abstained, reflecting increased international division on the issue. The U.S. expressed satisfaction with the growing opposition to Cuba's stance, accusing Havana of actively supporting Russia’s war, allegations that Cuba denies. The vote marks a significant change in international alignment regarding Cuba and highlights the broader geopolitical tensions surrounding the conflict in Ukraine and the use of foreign fighters.