Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Urges U.S. to End Blockade Against Cuba

The Prime Minister of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Ralph Gonsalves, called on the United States today to heed the international community and end the economic and commercial blockade against Cuba.

During his speech at the United Nations General Assembly debate, Gonsalves urged the U.S. government to “listen and act” to resolve the “fractured relationship” with the Caribbean island.

He emphasized that the solution must be based on “mutual respect, under the framework of International Law” and should aim to promote “peace, security, and shared prosperity” for both neighboring nations.

The Vincentian leader also pressed the United States to comply with resolutions overwhelmingly approved by the world body, which have repeatedly called for the end of what is described as an “oppressive and illegal blockade.”

The statement came amid the UN General Assembly session where member states vote annually on a resolution demanding the lifting of the U.S. blockade against Cuba—a measure that enjoys near-universal support, historically leaving the U.S. position isolated.