China Demands U.S. Halt Threats of Judicial Action Targeting Cuba

China has denounced the United States following the federal indictment of 94-year-old former Cuban leader Raúl Castro, insisting that Washington cease "brandishing the judicial stick" and imposing coercive sanctions against Havana.

The diplomatic conflict intensified after the U.S. Department of Justice revealed criminal murder and conspiracy charges against Castro. This case originates from the 1996 downing of two civilian aircraft operated by the Miami-based exile group Brothers to the Rescue, which led to four fatalities.

 

During a press briefing in Beijing, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun articulated China's opposition to the legal and economic tactics:

 China explicitly rejects what it terms the "abuse of judicial means" and the weaponization of domestic courts against foreign nations.

 The ministry asserted that the U.S. must cease its "barbaric blockade" and unilateral economic sanctions, which lack authorization from the United Nations Security Council.

 Beijing cautioned Washington to refrain from employing military intimidation or threatening force "at every turn" against the Caribbean nation.

China reiterated its unwavering support for Cuba in safeguarding its national dignity and resisting external interference.

Russia joined China in strongly criticizing the U.S. legal actions. Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova condemned the move as "gross interference" bordering on violence, vowing continued economic and political support for Havana.

The indictment has sparked significant speculation that the Trump administration aims to pursue regime change in Cuba, reflecting aggressive strategies previously employed against Venezuela.

In response to the backlash, U.S. officials and Secretary of State Marco Rubio defended the actions by characterizing Cuba as an active national security threat. They heavily emphasize Havana’s extensive military and intelligence connections with Beijing and Moscow.