US, Cuba shouting match derails debate at UN

The United States and Cuba engaged in a heated shouting match during a debate at the United Nations General Assembly on Tuesday, leading to a temporary suspension of proceedings. The conflict erupted when US envoy Michael Waltz was speaking against a resolution calling for an end to the US embargo on Cuba, a non-binding measure Cuba has proposed annually since 1992.

This year's debate was overshadowed by heightened pressure from Washington, including an oil blockade and broad sanctions that have severely impacted Cuba's economy. Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez confronted Waltz, insisting the speech be halted and accusing the US of silencing dissent. Waltz responded with accusations that Cuba was a "communist dictatorship" and a liar.

The chair intervened, reprimanding both sides and allowing Waltz to continue. Cuba claims Washington orchestrated an "unprecedented" campaign to sway nations against the resolution, which historically enjoyed strong support. Last year, the resolution received 165 votes in favor, seven against, and 12 abstentions, marking its lowest backing in two decades.

A vote on this year's resolution is anticipated on Wednesday. The dispute also follows US Secretary of State Marco Rubio's recent appeal for Cubans to cooperate discreetly with the CIA to overthrow the island's communist government.