A Canadian politician and activist, Avi Lewis, has accused US President Donald Trump of fuelling a humanitarian crisis in Cuba through an oil blockade. Lewis stated that the policy is causing devastating power outages and rationing for the island’s 11 million people.
Avi Lewis decries economic warfare, calls for aid
In a strongly-worded statement posted on X, Lewis said the US administration seeks to dominate the hemisphere with brute force and naked impunity. He called on the Canadian government to break its silence and act.
He described the Prime Minister’s silence as not an option when Trump attacks sovereign nations in the Americas.
“Canadians expect you to stand up for human rights, international law, and against the bullying of smaller nations by a rampaging superpower,” Lewis said.
He highlighted Canada’s long history of good relations with Cuba, noting that Canada has consistently voted at the United Nations to end the economic blockade. He also noted that millions of Canadian tourists have visited the island.
Counter-revolutionary blogger rejects blockade claims
Lewis urged Canada to immediately follow Mexico’s lead by condemning the US actions as economic warfare. He further advocated for Canada to step up with direct humanitarian assistance to the Cuban people.
Additionally, he endorses a parliamentary petition by NDP MP Alex Boulerice.
In reaction, a known anti-communist counter-revolutionary commentator identified as Dissident Wookie contested the characterization of a US blockade.
“The US is not blockading Cuba. China and Russia are free to supply Cuba with oil if they want. Cuba just doesn’t get free oil from Venezuela any longer. Commies can cry some more,” the dissident said.
The appeal from Lewis adds to growing international concern over Cuba’s severe economic and energy crisis. It also places pressure on the Canadian government to clarify its position and potential humanitarian response.
In a related development, the Cuban government has imposed emergency measures due to the crisis. An oil blockade by the U.S. is crippling daily activities in Cuba, as the 11 million people in the country are now left without electricity.
Similarly, Peter Mertens, a member of the Belgian Parliament, has stood in solidarity with the Cubans. He denounced the US oil blockade and called for its immediate lifting.
