Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, addressing the United Nations General Assembly, called for the "immediate release" of Nicolás Maduro and his wife, who have been in U.S. custody since January 3, 2026. He also demanded the lifting of the embargo on Cuba and the removal of all trade restrictions against the island.
During his speech at the 81st session of the UN on September 26, Lavrov condemned the capture of Maduro, describing it as "a violation of all norms, including moral standards." He asserted that international law "explicitly mandates respect for the immunities of high-ranking state officials."
"Earlier this year, the United States, in blatant disregard of all norms, including moral ones, invaded Venezuela, capturing President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, subjecting them to extrajudicial detention in an American prison. We insist on and demand the swift release of the Venezuelan leader and his spouse," Lavrov declared.
Cuba's Humanitarian Crisis and U.S. Policies
Regarding Cuba, the Russian diplomat highlighted the "dire humanitarian situation" on the island, pointing out that the Cuban regime is under "unprecedented pressure" from Washington. He urged the lifting of the embargo "by sea and all trade restrictions" with Havana.
Lavrov's remarks came during a week marked by heightened diplomatic tensions over Cuba and Venezuela at the UN General Assembly.
Diplomatic Tensions and Divergent Views
Former President Donald Trump had previously referred to Cuba as a "completely failed state" during the plenary session, leading to the Cuban delegation walking out of the room. He also touted the capture of Maduro as one of his significant achievements.
The day following Trump's comments, Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez Parrilla met with Lavrov in New York on the sidelines of the General Assembly. According to diplomatic sources, their discussion focused on the state of bilateral relations between Cuba and Russia.
Noteworthy was the contrast between Russia's stance and that of the Venezuelan government itself. Interim President Delcy Rodríguez spoke before the plenary that week, focusing on elections and "democratic transformation," without any mention of Maduro.
Russia's Stance on Global Issues
Russia had condemned the U.S. operation from the outset, labeling it an "act of armed aggression" on January 3, 2026, and shortly after, backed Delcy Rodríguez as interim president.
In the same UN address, Lavrov touched on the Palestinian conflict, asserting, "The time has come to ensure a state for the Palestinian people."
He accused Europe of "doing everything possible to obstruct a peaceful settlement and derail the possibility of negotiations" regarding Ukraine, mentioning "many interested parties, including the Trump Administration."
Lavrov further cautioned that if the current situation in Palestinian territories persists, "establishing a Palestinian state will be impossible, as there will simply be no space for it." In his view, "Israel's security will always be under threat."
Understanding Lavrov's Demands and U.S.-Cuba Relations
Why did Sergey Lavrov demand the release of Nicolás Maduro?
Lavrov demanded Maduro's release because he views the capture as a violation of international norms and moral standards, arguing that high-ranking officials have immunity under international law.
What is Lavrov's stance on the Cuban embargo?
Lavrov called for the end of the embargo and all trade restrictions against Cuba, citing the severe humanitarian crisis and unprecedented pressure on the Cuban regime from the United States.
How did the international community react to Maduro's capture?
Russia condemned the U.S. operation as an act of armed aggression and supported Delcy Rodríguez as interim president, while other countries and organizations have varied in their responses.