The Chinese ambassador to Cuba, Hua Xin, released a video statement on Wednesday, reaffirming Beijing's support for Havana and expressing confidence in the Cuban people's future. This declaration came just a day after the UN General Assembly approved an urgent debate on the U.S. embargo against the island nation.
His optimism regarding Cuba's "prosperity" starkly contrasts with the severe economic downturn that has plunged the island into one of its worst crises, a situation primarily attributed to the socialist regime's policies.
UN Vote Reflects Changing International Support
The UN vote in question took place on Tuesday, where Cuba received 136 votes in favor, nine against, and 30 abstentions. While the Cuban government hailed the outcome as a victory, the number of abstentions has notably doubled compared to the annual vote in October 2025, when Cuba secured 165 favorable votes with only seven against, indicating a decline in international support.
Hua Xin described the vote as evidence of "the international community's will and call for justice," attributing Cuba's crisis to U.S. sanctions. According to him, these measures have "intensified and escalated" in 2026, causing "serious issues like fuel shortages and widespread blackouts."
Root Causes of Cuba's Energy Crisis
However, the primary cause of Cuba's energy crisis is not the American sanctions but rather the disruption of Venezuelan oil supplies following the capture of Nicolás Maduro in January 2026.
Cuba is currently experiencing blackouts lasting up to 20 to 25 hours daily, with a record electricity deficit of 2,208 MW noted on June 26th.
China’s Strategic Partnership with Cuba
In his address, Hua Xin framed China's support as part of a strategic alliance: "As a permanent member of the UN Security Council and a globally responsible major nation, China will continue to work with Cuba to encourage the international community to oppose the U.S. blockade and coercion, reject the misuse of unilateral sanctions and force, and jointly defend fairness and justice."
He referred to China as a "good friend, partner, and brother to Cuba," and praised the Cuban people's efforts to "explore a development model suited to their national conditions," which in practice, supports the continuation of Miguel Díaz-Canel's regime.
Contrasting Views from the United States
In contrast, U.S. ambassador Mike Waltz remarked at the UN on Tuesday that the "real blockade" is the one the Cuban regime imposes on its own people, a stance that the Trump administration has maintained as the core of its policy towards Havana.
The bilateral relationship between Beijing and Havana has grown significantly in 2026. China approved an emergency aid package of $80 million and donated a total of 90,000 tons of rice to the island, distributed across two separate programs. Additionally, the two nations signed 11 cooperation documents in fields such as artificial intelligence, biotechnology, agriculture, and infrastructure.
Key Insights into Cuba's Current Situation
What was the outcome of the UN vote on the U.S. embargo against Cuba?
The UN vote resulted in 136 votes in favor of Cuba, nine against, and 30 abstentions. This marks an increase in abstentions compared to the previous year, reflecting a shift in international support.
What is the primary cause of Cuba's energy crisis in 2026?
The main reason for Cuba's energy crisis is the disruption of Venezuelan oil supplies following Nicolás Maduro's capture, rather than U.S. sanctions.
How has China's relationship with Cuba evolved in 2026?
In 2026, China's relationship with Cuba has strengthened, with China providing an $80 million emergency aid package and significant rice donations, as well as signing cooperation agreements in various sectors.