Russia condemns US emergency declaration against Cuba

MOSCOW, Jan 31 (KUNA) -- Russia's Foreign Ministry on Saturday described the United States' announcement activating a state of emergency against Cuba as a "radical return" to Washington's long-standing pressure strategy toward Havana.
In a statement, the Russian Foreign Ministry said Moscow strongly condemns the US sanctions imposed on Cuba, characterizing them as unilateral measures that contradict principles of international law and relevant UN resolutions, and that directly harm the Cuban people.
The statement added that US pressure on the Cuban leadership aims to destabilize the country internally, stressing that such policies have failed to achieve their objectives over many years and have instead contributed to worsening humanitarian and economic conditions.
The ministry emphasized that cooperation between Russia and Cuba is not directed against any third country, noting that Moscow will continue to strengthen this cooperation across various fields in a manner that serves the interests of both countries and is based on mutual respect and non-interference in internal affairs.
Moscow renewed its call for ending unilateral sanctions, adhering to constructive dialogue, and respecting state sovereignty and the right of countries to independently choose their political and economic paths.
The Russian remarks come amid increasingly hardened US rhetoric following recent regional developments, including continued economic measures against Cuba and threats to impose tariffs on countries supplying oil to the island. (end) dan.aa