2026-01-28 19:15:00
México City / La Jornada.- The United States “persecutes everything that can help the Cubans,” said Johana Tablada, second head of mission of the Cuban embassy in México, this Wednesday, denouncing the tightening of the blockade and new actions that, she said, seek to suffocate the island. In a formal ceremony on the occasion of the 173rd anniversary of José Martí’s birth, Tablada assured, on behalf of Ambassador Eugenio Martínez – who did not attend due to force majeure – that the Cuban people will follow the example of their national hero to defend the island’s right to choose its own destiny.
At the José Martí Cultural Center, the diplomat stressed that currently even the sending of ships with fuel and food to Cuba is being “criminalized.” “Who could think that it is a crime for a ship to enter Cuba with food, with fuel with which we light, with which we cook, with which we transport?” he questioned, maintaining that the US measures seek to prevent any basic commercial operation on the island.
Tablada stated that the economic, commercial and financial blockade imposed by the United States is not only maintained, but has intensified in recent years, directly affecting the daily lives of Cuban families. He noted that Washington “does everything necessary to impoverish Cuba, to destabilize it and regain its dominance,” while pursuing third countries, banks and companies that try to maintain normal relations with the island.
The diplomatic representative linked this policy to a long history of aggression against Cuban sovereignty, from the imposition of the Guantánamo naval base to the current unilateral coercive measures. He stated that, in the face of this scenario, the figure of José Martí continues to be a source of inspiration to resist. “Martí gives us strength to resist and win today, in the midst of the greatest adversity,” he said, highlighting his anti-imperialist thoughts and his defense of the dignity of the people of America.
In his speech, Tablada also explicitly thanked México for its historic stance against the blockade. He recognized the constant support of the Mexican government in international forums and the solidarity of the people of México with Cuba. “We are very grateful to México for that permanent vote and that constant call to put an end to the abuse that the blockade represents against the Cuban population,” he expressed.
He maintained that Cuba will continue to support a “civilized and respectful” relationship with the United States, but without giving up its sovereignty. “Do not mistreat us and you will not be mistreated. Respect and you will be respected,” he said, quoting Martí.
