Mike Waltz reveals Cuban diplomat shoved US staffer, slapped phone away in explosive UN clash
US Ambassador to the United Nations Mike Waltz said a confrontation with Cuban officials during his General Assembly speech nearly became physical. He alleged a Cuban diplomat shoved a member of his staff and knocked a phone from his hand, while Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez Parrilla moved towards the podium as Waltz criticised Cuba’s government.
Waltz said the diplomat was sent back to Cuba on a one-way flight, crediting Secretary of State Marco Rubio with the decision. He said he had displayed images of luxury assets he attributed to Cuban leaders, and cited Rubio’s 100-page report alleging Cuban espionage and influence operations in the US. These are Waltz’s claims; he also predicted Cuba would become free during Donald Trump’s presidency.
In short
- Waltz alleges a Cuban diplomat shoved his staffer and struck a phone from his hand.
- The incident occurred during his criticism of Cuba at the UN General Assembly.
- Waltz said the diplomat was sent back to Cuba on a one-way flight.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
If Waltz’s account is accurate, a diplomat shoving a staff member and knocking away his phone would be unacceptable conduct, and the US could reasonably respond to protect its personnel and uphold standards at the UN. Supporters may also argue that publicly challenging Cuba’s government and scrutinising its alleged influence operations serves transparency and accountability.
The case against
Cuba’s officials could dispute Waltz’s account or argue that a heated exchange during a political speech should not be treated as established fact without independent corroboration. Critics may also see sending a diplomat home and using the confrontation to reinforce broader accusations against Cuba as an escalatory response that risks politicising the UN and prejudging contested claims.
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