On Thursday, Cuban leader Miguel Díaz-Canel strongly criticized the Ecuadorian government after it ousted Cuban diplomats stationed in the country. He labeled the move as "unjustified, hostile, and unfriendly."
Díaz-Canel took to the social media platform X to express his discontent, stating that Ecuador's decision "damages the historic bonds of friendship and cooperation between our nations."
"We denounce the unjustified, hostile, and unfriendly actions of the Ecuadorian government towards our diplomatic mission in their nation. This unprecedented action harms the historical ties of friendship and cooperation between our peoples," the Cuban leader wrote in the first of two messages addressing the issue.
Further, the Cuban president accused Quito of succumbing to external pressures, claiming that Ecuador is acting with "clear submission to imperial interests."
"In a turbulent international context, Cuba reaffirms its commitment to advocating for the preservation of Latin American unity in the face of Ecuador's clear submission to imperial interests," he added.
Díaz-Canel also conveyed that the Ecuadorian populace will "always have Cuba's affection and support," referencing historical figures like Eloy Alfaro and artist Oswaldo Guayasamín.
The statements from the Cuban head of state came after the Ecuadorian government's decision on Wednesday to expel Cuban diplomats, marking a new chapter of tension between Havana and several regional governments amid scrutiny over the presence of Cuban official missions abroad.
In additional messages posted on Wednesday, Díaz-Canel commemorated the anniversary of the 1960 attack on the French vessel La Coubre, reiterating the official slogan "Patria o Muerte" and condemning what he described as acts of terrorism against Cuba.
He also paid tribute to the late Venezuelan President Hugo Chávez, calling him "Cuba's and Fidel's best friend."
Diplomatic strains between Cuba and certain Latin American countries have escalated in recent months, particularly following the arrest of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, a long-time ally of Havana, and U.S. pressure during negotiations aimed at fostering political and economic changes on the island.
Key Questions on Cuba-Ecuador Diplomatic Tensions
Why did Ecuador expel Cuban diplomats?
Ecuador expelled Cuban diplomats as part of increasing regional tensions and scrutiny over the presence of Cuban official missions abroad.
How has Díaz-Canel responded to the expulsion of diplomats?
Díaz-Canel has condemned Ecuador's actions as unjustified and hostile, accusing the country of submitting to imperial interests and damaging historic relations between the two nations.
What historical figures did Díaz-Canel reference in his response?
Díaz-Canel referenced Ecuadorian historical figures like Eloy Alfaro and Oswaldo Guayasamín to emphasize the enduring connection between Cuba and the Ecuadorian people.