Tension at the UN: Cuban delegation leaves the plenary session during Donald Trump’s speech
The opening day of the 81st United Nations General Assembly, held in New York, was marked by a moment of high diplomatic tension. The Cuban delegation decided to withdraw from the main hall just as the President of the United States, Donald Trump, began his address to the plenary.
The withdrawal of the Cuban representatives coincided with the direct criticisms from the American president toward the island’s political system. During his address, Trump described Cuba as a failed state and predicted an imminent collapse of its governmental model, reaffirming the stance of pressure that his administration maintains over Havana.
Key points of the controversy
- The incident occurred during the first day of the UN General Debate, which takes place from September 22 to 26.
- Trump directly linked Secretary of State Marco Rubio to Washington’s strategy regarding the island.
- The departure of the diplomats was captured by the official cameras of the United Nations broadcast.
Cuba does not constitute a threat to the United States or to any other nation.
Bruno Rodríguez, Foreign Minister of Cuba
Following the speech, Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez dismissed the accusations from the U.S. leader, stressing that his country maintains a sovereign and peaceful stance. This episode reflects the persistent friction in the bilateral relationship, marked by constant accusations from the White House regarding the island’s internal situation and Havana’s denunciations of the economic pressure policies exerted by Washington.
The General Debate of the 81st UN General Assembly will continue its work agenda, which will extend until next Monday, September 28, in a climate of evident distancing between both delegations.
