China Calls for End to US Pressure on Cuba and Respect for Gulf Nations at UN

China’s vice‑president Han Zheng used his address to the United Nations General Assembly on September 26, 2026 to challenge the United States over its actions in the Gulf and on Cuba. He said that the sovereignty of Middle‑East states, including those in the Gulf, must be honoured and urged the United States to cease any threats against Cuba and to lift the embargo that has crippled the island’s oil supply. Han did not name Washington directly, but the remarks echoed concerns about a U.S. campaign that has blocked fuel shipments to Cuba, contributing to a nationwide power grid failure earlier this month. The Cuban electricity system collapsed, leaving millions without lights as the blockade, in place since January, deepened existing shortages. In a stark contrast to the friendly atmosphere at the White House earlier in the week, where President Donald Trump hosted Chinese President Xi Jinping with military flyovers and a grand dinner, the Chinese delegation stressed that major powers have a duty to protect global peace, follow international law, and act responsibly. Trump had warned Xi not to aid Iran during talks in Washington, and the U.S. ambassador to China said Beijing had assured it would not support Tehran. Recent reports, however, claim China has supplied Iran with portable air‑defence missile launchers and helped Tehran evade oil sanctions. Han concluded by portraying China as a steady partner for developing nations, insisting that all countries, big or small, should have equal say in world affairs through consultation.