Russia Demands Maduro’s Release, End to Cuba Blockade and Palestinian State at UN
On September 26, 2026, during the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov demanded the pronta release of deposed Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, called for an end to the blockade of Cuba, and insisted on the establishment of a sovereign Palestinian state. The wide-ranging diplomatic address challenged Western policies across Latin America and the Middle East while defending Moscow’s ongoing military actions in Ukraine.
Challenging Western Enforcement in Latin America
Lavrov’s remarks focused heavily on the political situation in Venezuela and Cuba, framing Western policies as flagrant breaches of international law. According to statements delivered at the UN General Assembly, the foreign minister insisted on the “pronta liberación” of Maduro and his spouse following their detention earlier in the year.
Moscú characterized the detention of the Venezuelan leader without trial as a severe violation of moral and legal standards. Lavrov asserted that international law explicitly protects the immunity and inviolability of high-ranking state officials.
Turning to Cuba, Lavrov condemned the ongoing maritime blockade and trade restrictions. He described the situation on the island as a desperate humanitarian crisis driven by unprecedented foreign pressure. Consequently, the Russian diplomat called for Cuba’s removal from the official list of state sponsors of terrorism.
The Urgency of Palestinian Statehood
Shifting focus to the Middle East, Lavrov declared that the international community must prioritize a sovereign state for the Palestinian people. He argued that resolving the core conflict in the region is essential for long-term geopolitical stability.
“Rusia está convencida de que llegó la hora de solucionar el principal problema de Oriente Medio: garantizar un Estado al pueblo palestino sobre la base de las numerosas decisiones de la ONU,” Lavrov stated during the general debate.
The Russian diplomat expressed pessimism regarding internal political unity among Palestinian factions, urging them to focus strictly on political objectives. He also criticized the implementation of peace plans in Gaza, pointing out that civilian casualties continue to mount nearly a year after the UN Security Council approved a U.S.-backed peace framework.
Lavrov also warned that ongoing settlement expansion in the West Bank threatens to render a two-state solution physically impossible. He maintained that eroding the prospect of Palestinian statehood ultimately undermines the long-term security of Israel.
Defending Military Objectives in Ukraine
Addressing the conflict in Eastern Europe, Lavrov defended Russia’s military campaign in Ukraine, asserting that Moscow is fighting for truth and justice. He reiterated that all stated objectives of the military operation will be met, security threats will be eliminated, and civilian life will be restored.
The foreign minister placed blame on European nations for actively obstructing peaceful resolutions and undermining potential negotiations. He claimed that European actors are deliberately stalling diplomatic avenues supported by various international stakeholders, including the administration of U.S. President Donald Trump.
Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin noted that recent Ukrainian attacks during regional legislative elections have further complicated prospects for resuming trilateral negotiations, which have remained stalled since February.