Rodolfo Benítez Verson, ambassador and permanent representative of Cuba to the United Nations in Geneva, denounced today at the Conference on Disarmament in Switzerland the threat of direct military aggression against the island by the United States, according to the Cuban Mission in Geneva via its Facebook profile.

The diplomat stated that an attack would violate the UN Charter and international law, causing severe human losses both in Cuba and in the United States.

Benítez pointed out that the U.S. government has intensified the economic, commercial, and financial blockade with additional sanctions and an energy siege that, since January 29, has prevented fuel from entering the country—equivalent to a naval blockade.

He explained that these measures have caused power outages, difficulties in water and gas supply, disruptions in food production and medical services, as well as an increase in infant mortality and a reduction in life expectancy among children with cancer.

The ambassador called the filing of criminal charges against the leader of the Cuban Revolution, Army General Raúl Castro Ruz, arbitrary, and considered it an attempt to justify military action.

He reiterated Cuba’s willingness to hold bilateral conversations without interference in its internal affairs and called on the international community to prevent an aggression that would have unpredictable consequences.

Benítez asked for solidarity with Cuba in the face of the fuel blockade and military threats, and assured that the Cuban people will defend their sovereignty and independence to the last consequences.