US, Cuba shouting match derails debate at UN

The United States and Cuba engaged in a heated shouting match during a UN General Assembly debate on Tuesday, forcing a temporary suspension of the discussion. The controversy erupted over a resolution aiming to end the US embargo on Cuba, a non-binding measure Cuba has proposed annually since 1992. This year's debate is occurring amidst significant pressure exerted by Washington, including an oil blockade and broad sanctions that have severely damaged Cuba's economy.

US Ambassador Mike Waltz was addressing the assembly when Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez intervened, demanding the speech be halted. Waltz, criticizing the communist government's repression, accused Rodriguez and other Cuban diplomats of being liars. The chair intervened, briefly suspending the session and ordering the diplomats to return to their seats, after which Waltz resumed his remarks.

Cuba had accused the US of launching an unprecedented pressure campaign this year to sway countries to oppose the resolution, which typically enjoys strong support. Last year, the resolution garnered 165 votes in favor, seven against, and 12 abstentions, marking its weakest backing in two decades. A vote on this year's resolution is anticipated on Wednesday.

The altercation also follows the recent urging by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio for Cubans to secretly collaborate with the CIA to overthrow Cuba's communist regime.