UN Assembly Calls for End to US Embargo on Cuba

The United Nations General Assembly voted 130-17 on October 28 to call for an end to the U.S. economic embargo on Cuba, with 25 countries abstaining. The resolution passed by a wide margin, but support was lower and opposition and abstentions higher than in last year’s vote. The tally compares with 165 countries in favor, seven against and 12 abstaining last year. Canada voted in favor, continuing its longstanding opposition to the embargo. Germany and Italy were among countries reported to have abstained for the first time in many years; Latvia was also reported among first-time abstainers. The resolution calls on states to end the embargo and opposes measures that restrict trade and navigation. It is not legally binding, and only the U.S. Congress can lift the embargo. The annual vote carries political weight, but does not change U.S. policy by itself. U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Mike Waltz said after the vote that he was satisfied Germany, South Korea and other countries had shifted position. He predicted further shifts. His comments did not establish why governments changed their votes or abstained. Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez accused Washington of...