“Any negotiated, peaceful solution to the problems between the United States and peoples, or any people of Latin America, which does not imply force or the use of force, must be addressed in accordance with international principles and norms.”
- August 13, 1926 – November 25, 2016
- Cuban
- Revolutionary, Prime Minister and President of Cuba, Communist Leader
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Quote
“Any negotiated, peaceful solution to the problems between the United States and peoples, or any people of Latin America, which does not imply force or the use of force, must be addressed in accordance with international principles and norms.”
Explanation
This quote outlines Fidel Castro’s advocacy for diplomacy rooted in legality and mutual respect, especially in the context of U.S.–Latin American relations. By emphasizing “negotiated, peaceful solution”, Castro affirms that conflict resolution must avoid coercion, intimidation, or military intervention. His insistence that such solutions be handled according to “international principles and norms” reflects his belief in sovereignty, non-intervention, and the rule of international law—a recurring theme in his critiques of U.S. foreign policy.
Historically, many Latin American nations, including Cuba, have experienced intervention, regime change efforts, and economic pressure from the United States. Castro’s statement is both a safeguard against imperialist behavior and an appeal for equitable diplomacy, positioning Cuba as a defender of regional autonomy and multilateral governance. His words insist that no powerful nation should dictate the affairs of another under the guise of diplomacy or peace.
In the modern context, this quote remains highly relevant as nations continue to navigate asymmetrical power dynamics in international relations. It reinforces the idea that true peace must be based on consent, justice, and adherence to established legal frameworks, not on threats or unilateral conditions. Castro’s message calls on the international community to uphold a standard of fairness and respect, particularly in dealings between powerful and vulnerable states.
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