Caribbean leaders call for ‘de-escalation and dialogue’ amid US oil embargo on Cuba

The Guardian World

by Natricia Duncan and agencies

February 25, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Caribbean leaders have called for “de-escalation and dialogue” during a four-day Caricom summit in St Kitts and Nevis, as tensions rise over US interventions in the region. The summit, attended by 15 nations from the Caribbean and the Americas, was dominated by discussions about recent US policies, including military strikes against suspected drug boats and an oil blockade targeting Cuba. Leaders emphasized the need for strategic collaboration to address the far-reaching impacts of these actions. The summit’s opening ceremony highlighted concerns over escalating US military operations in the region. These operations have led to deadly strikes on vessels suspected of drug trafficking, raising tensions among Caribbean nations. Additionally, the ongoing US oil embargo on Cuba has drawn criticism from regional leaders, who view it as a unilateral action that disrupts economic stability and cooperation across the Caribbean. Delegates at the summit stressed the importance of dialogue and diplomacy to resolve conflicts and reduce regional instability. They also called for greater unity within Caricom to address shared challenges, such as the economic strain caused by US policies and the security risks posed by military interventions. Leaders urged a balanced approach to counternarcotics efforts, emphasizing the need to protect human rights and avoid unintended consequences for innocent civilians. The discussions underscored the delicate balance Caribbean nations must strike between regional stability and US influence. Many leaders expressed frustration over what they perceive as unilateral actions by the United States, which have far-reaching implications for the region’s security and economic well-being. By advocating for de-escalation and collective action, Caricom aims to foster a more stable and cooperative environment in the face of ongoing challenges. This summit highlights the broader struggle for regional autonomy and the importance of maintaining open channels of communication amid shifting global dynamics. For readers interested in world affairs, understanding these dynamics provides insight into how smaller nations navigate complex international relations

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Originally published on The Guardian World on 2/25/2026