Weekly Report - 28 May 2026 (WR-26-21)

Amid heightened tensions between Cuba and the US, which has imposed a fuel blockade on the island, hardened sanctions, floated military action and, most recently, indicted Raúl Castro, the 94-year-old former Cuban president (2008-2018) [WR-26-20], aimed at forcing political and economic reforms, both sides have recently dialled up the rhetoric. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has reiterated that Cuba is a national security threat and appeared doubtful as to the prospects of diplomacy. Cuba’s Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez used a speech before the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) this week to accuse Washington of committing “an act of war and genocide” against the Cuban people through its oil blockade. However, both sides have also signalled that negotiations are ongoing.