Carlos Fernandez de Cossio, Cuba's deputy foreign minister, told C-SPAN's Washington Journal that any US military action against Cuba would be an "atrocious international crime," describing it as an attack on a peaceful neighboring nation. His remarks followed President Donald Trump's recent statements at the United Nations General Assembly suggesting "freedom will be coming" to Cuba and his suggestion that the US might not need to use military force because Cuba is "failing very badly." Trump had previously indicated a willingness to consider military options, while Cuban officials have maintained that diplomatic channels remain open but have produced limited results due to the longstanding US sanctions regime. The US has imposed a comprehensive economic embargo against Cuba for over six decades, with the Trump administration recently expanding an oil and fuel blockade that has contributed to fuel shortages and power outages across the island. Cuban officials have argued that the sanctions, which include restrictions on commercial shipments and humanitarian supplies, amount to collective punishment that harms the civilian population. Fernandez de Cossio emphasized that Cuba would defend its sovereignty if attacked, stating that the country is prepared for the possibility of US aggression despite being isolated, and called for negotiations that respect Cuban sovereignty and address mutual interests. Several nations voiced criticism of the US sanctions during the UNGA session, highlighting ongoing international concern over the humanitarian impact of the blockade.