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, took the podium to deliver his speech to the plenary.
The withdrawal of the Cuban representatives coincided with the strong statements from the American president, who described the island as an “absolutely failed state” and predicted that its current political system will eventually collapse. These words were a central part of his address regarding Washington’s stance toward Havana.
Key points of the diplomatic standoff
- The incident occurred during the start of the General Debate, scheduled from September 22 to 28.
- Trump emphasized the pressure strategy exerted by his administration, mentioning Secretary of State Marco Rubio as a key figure in foreign policy toward the island.
- The departure of the diplomats was captured by official cameras broadcasting the event live from the UN headquarters.
Cuba does not constitute a threat to the United States or to any other sovereign nation.
Bruno Rodríguez, Cuban Foreign Minister
Following the speech, Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez dismissed the accusations made by the U.S. president. Rodríguez reaffirmed his country’s position, asserting that they do not pose a threat to regional security, in a context where both nations maintain deep historical differences. While the United States justifies its policy of pressure, the Cuban government insists on denouncing what it describes as an economic war against it.
This episode underscores the fragility of bilateral relations in a global scenario, where the 81st General Assembly continues its debate sessions until the end of September.
