China Backs Cuba After Florida Issues Warrant for Raul Castro

BEIJING: (News Desk) – China has condemned a Florida arrest warrant issued for former Cuban president Raul Castro, describing it as an “abuse of judicial measures” aimed at putting pressure on Cuba.

The warrant, announced by Florida’s top prosecutor on Monday, seeks the arrest of the 95-year-old former leader over murder charges linked to the February 24, 1996, downing of two civilian aircraft belonging to Brothers to the Rescue, an organisation that assisted Cubans fleeing to Florida by sea.

The move has drawn criticism from Cuba’s current leadership and prompted a strong response from Beijing, which maintains close political ties with Havana.

Speaking at a news briefing on Wednesday, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning urged Washington to end what she described as coercive measures against Cuba.

“China has consistently opposed the abuse of judicial measures to exert pressure on Cuba, and firmly supports Cuba in safeguarding its national sovereignty and resisting foreign interference,” Mao said.

She also described Raul Castro as a respected figure of the Cuban Revolution who enjoys international prestige.

China’s response comes amid escalating tensions between Washington and Havana. Cuba has faced growing economic pressure from US President Donald Trump’s administration, including restrictions affecting its energy supplies.

Relations between the two countries have remained strained since the beginning of 2026, when US forces captured Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro, a key ally of the Cuban government.

In May, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi reaffirmed Beijing’s support for Havana during talks with his Cuban counterpart in New York, pledging to oppose what he called “power politics and bullying.”

The latest dispute over the arrest warrant adds another dimension to the broader diplomatic tensions involving the United States, Cuba and China.