United States economic blockade against Cuba reaches 64 years

The economic, commercial, and financial blockade imposed by the United States against Cuba has persisted for 64 years. Originally initiated following the 1959 Cuban Revolution, the restrictions were formalized in 1962. Official figures indicate that the total damages caused by the blockade amount to 178.7 billion USD at current prices. Between March 1, 2025, and February 28, 2026, losses reached 8.083 billion USD, representing a 7 percent increase over the previous period.

Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova described the blockade as a “shame,” noting that it represents an attempt by a global power to influence a population to serve specific political interests. She highlighted that Russia consistently votes against the blockade in the UN General Assembly.

Recent escalations include an executive order by U.S. President Donald Trump allowing for tariffs on imports from countries supplying petroleum to Cuba, alongside a national emergency declaration citing a “Cuban threat” to U.S. national security. The Cuban government characterizes these measures as an “energy blockade” intended to cause social crisis and regime change.