US Democratic Lawmakers Denounce Cuba Energy Blockade as Economic Bombing

Two U.S. Democratic lawmakers visited Cuba and met with President Díaz-Canel and Foreign Minister Rodríguez.

“Cuba’s president meets with US lawmakers amid island’s energy crisis Representatives Pramila Jayapal and Jonathan Jackson discuss effects of US energy blockade Jorge Antonio Rocha April 07, 2026•Update: April 07, 2026 MEXICO CITY Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel met with US Democratic representatives in Havana, where they discussed the effects of Washington’s energy blockade against the Caribbean island nation”

Anadolu Ajansı

They denounced the U.S. energy blockade as cruel collective punishment and economic bombing.

Anadolu Ajansı

Díaz-Canel denounced the criminal damage caused by the blockade and threats of more aggressive actions.

The visit came amid ongoing but undisclosed high-level talks.

Jayapal and Jackson witnessed premature infants at risk due to lack of electricity.

Cancer patients were unable to receive treatment, and children were missing school.

Associated Press

The blockade was triggered after the Trump administration issued executive orders threatening tariffs on fuel suppliers.

Venezuela and Mexico stopped sending oil fearing sanctions.

Jayapal said recent steps by Cuba indicate the moment is here for real negotiation.

Cuba has opened the economy to certain investments by Cuban Americans.

More than 2,000 prisoners were pardoned, though none appear to be political prisoners.