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Mexico's President Sheinbaum Opposes U.S. Blockade on Cuba, Urges Sanctions Relief
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has publicly opposed the U.S. blockade against Cuba and advocated for sanctions relief in discussions with President Donald Trump, citing Cuba's economic liberalization efforts. She emphasized Mexico's historical stance on respecting national sovereignty and reaffirmed solidarity with Cuba's right to self-determination.
Quick Facts
Who
Claudia Sheinbaum
What
Expressed opposition to U.S. blockade on Cuba
When
Wednesday, June 17, 2026
Where
Mexico City
- Expressed opposition to U.S. blockade on Cuba
- Advocated for sanctions relief
- Held telephone conversations with U.S. President
- Reaffirmed Mexico's foreign policy on sovereignty
- Claudia Sheinbaum
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum publicly expressed her opposition to the decades-long U.S. blockade against Cuba during her daily press conference on Wednesday, June 17. She stated that during telephone conversations with U.S. President Donald Trump, she has advocated for sanctions relief, pointing to Cuba's efforts to open its economy as justification for reconsidering the embargo. "Cuba has made an effort to open up its economy, so it would be worthwhile to take that into account," Sheinbaum said.
Sheinbaum emphasized that Mexico's stance reflects its longstanding foreign policy grounded in respect for national sovereignty and non-intervention. She reiterated Mexico's historical opposition to such sanctions and reaffirmed the country's solidarity with Cuba. "We will always agree, in the case of Cuba, with its right to self-determination and that the Cuban people should not be punished," the Mexican president declared, underscoring her commitment to supporting Cuba's autonomy in international relations.
Why This Matters
This statement signals Mexico's continued diplomatic independence on Latin American policy despite pressure from the incoming Trump administration. Sheinbaum's public advocacy for Cuba sanctions relief—and her direct engagement with Trump on the issue—demonstrates Mexico's willingness to defend regional autonomy and strengthen South-South solidarity, while testing the boundaries of bilateral relations with Washington. For readers, this underscores how Mexico's foreign policy may diverge from U.S. geopolitical objectives in the Americas.
Timeline & Sources
Jun 17, 2026
WireMexican President Sheinbaum expresses opposition to U.S. blockade on Cuba at daily press conference