The European Union on 7 July 2026 called for an end to the United States' economic, commercial and financial embargo against Cuba, while also urging the Cuban government to undertake meaningful political and economic reforms. Speaking at the UN General Assembly in New York, EU Ambassador Stavros Lambrinidis, Head of the EU Delegation to the UN, delivered a statement on behalf of the bloc and its member states, acknowledging the adverse humanitarian impact of the embargo on the Cuban people but stressing that Cuba's dire situation is not solely due to external measures.
Ambassador Lambrinidis emphasized that humanitarian support and access must be protected under all circumstances, but added that meaningful reforms by Cuban authorities are urgently needed, including full respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms, the release of arbitrarily detained individuals, and concrete steps toward opening space for inclusive dialogue with civil society. The EU also expressed deep regret over Cuba's position on Russia's war against Ukraine, noting its vote against a February 2026 UN resolution supporting a ceasefire and lasting peace. The EU urged Cuba to refrain from providing any support to Russia's aggression and to prevent its nationals from joining Russian military forces.
The statement reaffirmed the EU's opposition to US extraterritorial measures, particularly the Helms-Burton Act, which negatively affect EU economic interests and violate international trade rules. EU law forbids member states from implementing that legislation. The EU reiterated its support for dialogue and a diplomatic solution between the US and Cuba, grounded in international law and UN Charter principles.
Lambrinidis described the daily hardships faced by millions of Cubans: power outages, shortages of medicines and food, collapsing public services, and difficulties accessing basic healthcare. He stated that Cubans aspire to freedom and opportunity and deserve a brighter future. The EU pledged to continue its critical yet constructive engagement with Cuba to support institutional, economic, social, and political modernisation, and to provide humanitarian assistance. However, he made clear that humanitarian support alone will not solve Cuba's crisis and that important sovereign decisions can no longer be postponed.