In an unprecedented political move, Spain’s Congress of Deputies has formally condemned former U.S. President Donald Trump’s executive order intensifying economic restrictions against Cuba. The resolution marks the first official rejection by Spanish governmental institutions of U.S. policy toward the Caribbean nation.
The initiative, championed by United Left (IU) congressman Enrique Santiago and backed by the Sumar movement, received cross-party support from EH Bildu, ERC, Podemos, and Coalición Canaria. The proposal was ultimately adopted with amendments from the ruling Socialist Party (PSOE), though it faced strong opposition from conservative factions including the People’s Party (PP), Junts for Catalonia, and the far-right Vox party.
Santiago, who also serves as general secretary of the Communist Party of Spain (PCE), issued stark warnings during parliamentary debates, asserting that the strengthened U.S. sanctions could precipitate the ‘collapse’ of essential Cuban infrastructure within weeks. He specifically highlighted vulnerabilities in healthcare systems, power grids, and transportation networks.
The resolution urges the Spanish government to formally demand the cessation of what it characterizes as ‘coercive measures’ against Cuba in all international forums. Santiago expressed hope that this parliamentary action would inspire Spain’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs to issue a strong statement defending Cuba against what he termed ‘brutal aggression’ from the United States.
Beyond diplomatic channels, the measure calls for broader societal solidarity, encouraging both official institutions and civil society to facilitate the delivery of essential materials, goods, and energy products to address Cuba’s pressing needs. Santiago framed the initiative as a defense of fundamental principles of international law, including national sovereignty, non-interference, and the prohibition of force in international relations.
The legislator drew historical parallels, warning that the U.S. policies aim to reduce Cuba to colonial status similar to Puerto Rico’s relationship with the United States. The resolution represents a significant alignment of left-wing and democratic forces in Spain around a common foreign policy position challenging U.S. hemispheric influence.