China Condemns US Sanctions and Reported Military Threats Against Cuba

The Government of China condemned the United States for intensifying its economic blockade and sanctions against Cuba, demanding an immediate end to all coercive pressures. In press briefings on July 15 and 16, 2026, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian criticized the U.S. for maintaining illegal sanctions for over 60 years and specifically targeted the Trump administration's recent escalation.

Under Executive Order 14404, the United States has implemented over 240 measures since January 2026. The most recent round of sanctions targeted 10 Cuban state entities, including the Ministry of Tourism and the Foreign Trade Business Group. Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez described these actions as "criminal and genocidal." In response to Cuba's economic crisis, China provided an $80 million emergency assistance package and rice shipments.

Diplomatic tensions escalated further on July 16 when Lin Jian responded to reports that senior officials within the United States Department of Defense were exploring military operations against Cuba. China demanded that the U.S. cease all military threats and respect Cuba's national sovereignty and right to development.