Cuba’s Deputy Foreign Minister, Carlos Fernández de Cossío, this Thursday dismissed a new $6 million humanitarian aid package from the United States, accusing Washington of “proverbial hypocrisy.”
Aid Package Criticized
Fernández de Cossío criticized the U.S. Government’s promise to “send a little bit of beans, rice, dairy products and rechargeable lamps” to Cubans in the eastern provinces. He stated this offer occurs while, according to him, the U.S. Maintains a “relentless economic war” depriving the island of fuel.
The Cuban Deputy Foreign Minister asserted that Washington’s coercive measures exceed $5 billion annually, directly impacting food production, electricity generation, health services, water supply, and transportation.
According to Fernández de Cossío, the U.S. Government applies sanctions that harm the daily lives of millions of Cubans while offering humanitarian aid at “exorbitant prices to do a dirty political business.”
He also stated that if U.S. Representatives were honest, they would acknowledge the “effective track record of Cuban authorities” in distributing international aid, supported by agencies of the United Nations System and allied governments.
U.S. Response and Distribution Plans
The statements from Fernández de Cossío followed an announcement from the Department of State confirming the delivery of an additional $6 million in direct assistance to the Cuban people, in collaboration with the Catholic Church, and Caritas.
Washington has insisted the resources will not be channeled through the Cuban regime, but delivered directly by local parishes to avoid diversion or political control. The Department of State warned the government of Miguel Díaz-Canel that any attempt to interfere with the distribution of resources “will have consequences,” reiterating that the assistance aims to benefit the population directly, not the power structures in Havana.
The Cuban government continues to maintain a discourse of resistance, accusing Washington of intensifying economic pressure as the country experiences one of its worst energy and food crises in recent history.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the value of the new U.S. Aid package?
The new aid package is valued at $6 million.
Who is collaborating with the U.S. On aid delivery?
The U.S. Is collaborating with the Catholic Church and Caritas on aid delivery.
What did Cuba’s Deputy Foreign Minister accuse the U.S. Of?
Carlos Fernández de Cossío accused the U.S. Of “proverbial hypocrisy” and maintaining a “relentless economic war” against Cuba.
As the U.S. Continues to provide aid directly to the Cuban people, and the Cuban government denounces the assistance, what impact might this approach have on the relationship between the two countries?
