China Condemns US Sanctions on Cuba, Urges Lifting of 'Illegal Blockade'

Beijing, China – China's Foreign Ministry has expressed deep concern and strong condemnation regarding the United States' sanctions against Cuba, urging Washington to immediately lift what it describes as an 'illegal blockade.' The statement was delivered by Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun during a regular press conference on Tuesday, January 27, 2026.

China's Firm Stance Against Sanctions

Spokesperson Guo Jiakun stated that China is 'deeply concerned by and strongly condemns the U.S.'s moves' against Cuba. He urged the United States to 'stop depriving the Cuban people of their rights to subsistence and development,' and to 'stop disrupting regional peace and stability.' Furthermore, Guo called on the U.S. to 'halt its actions that violate international law, and immediately lift the blockade and sanctions against Cuba.' China views the U.S. actions as a 'brutal assault against a nation that is not hostile to any nation' and asserts that Cuban economic hardships are primarily caused by the U.S.

Beijing and Havana share a long-standing alliance as socialist countries, and China has consistently opposed the economic blockade imposed on the island by the United States for decades. China has demonstrated its solidarity by voting in favor of United Nations General Assembly resolutions condemning U.S. anti-Cuba actions for 33 consecutive years. Guo Jiakun affirmed that China 'will continue to provide Cuba with support and assistance within its capacity.'

Decades of US Embargo and Its Impact

The United States embargo against Cuba, a comprehensive economic measure, has been in effect since February 1962, initially proclaimed by President John F. Kennedy. This embargo prevents U.S. businesses and citizens from conducting trade or commerce with Cuban interests and is recognized as the most enduring trade embargo in modern history. Its impact is extensive, affecting all sectors of the Cuban economy.

The economic damage to Cuba due to the embargo has been substantial, with the United Nations estimating in 2023 that the total cost since its inception is in the 'trillions of dollars.' The embargo's legal framework includes several acts, such as the Cuban Democracy Act of 1992 and the Helms–Burton Act of 1996. The embargo was notably tightened under the Trump administration, which reimposed bans on U.S. tourism and restricted financial transactions with entities controlled by the Cuban military. Cuba was also placed back on the U.S. 'state sponsors of terrorism' list.

Recent Intensification and Calls for Dialogue

The Cuban government recently denounced reports that the U.S. was considering intensifying its 'illegal blockade,' particularly concerning the supply of oil. This move has been described by Cuba as a 'brutal assault' and a form of 'collective punishment' that severely impacts the Cuban economy and the daily lives of its people. Recent tensions have been exacerbated by statements from U.S. President Donald Trump, who reportedly warned that Cuba 'is ready to fall' and urged Havana to 'make a deal' or face consequences similar to those seen in Venezuela.

China's Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun reiterated Beijing's call for the U.S. to heed the international community's appeal and engage in actions conducive to peace, stability, and development in the Latin American and Caribbean region, rather than imposing unilateral sanctions.