FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 13, 2024
Media Contact: Melissa Garriga | [email protected]
Statement Condemning the United States Court Acquittal of Attack on Cuban Embassy in D.C.
CODEPINK strongly condemns the recent decision by a United States court to acquit the individual responsible for the heinous attack on the Cuban Embassy in Washington. It is deeply troubling that the court failed to classify this act as terrorism and instead attributed it to dementia, a move that reeks of political manipulation.
The attack, which took place on April 30th, 2020, posed a grave threat to the lives of embassy staff and endangered diplomatic relations. By refusing to hold the perpetrator accountable, the court sets a dangerous precedent that emboldens future acts of violence against Cuban Embassies with impunity. We call on the U.S. government to rectify this miscarriage of justice and acknowledge the criminal responsibility of the individual in question.
The irony of Cuba being labeled a State Sponsor of Terrorism while actual perpetrators of violence against Cuban interests go unpunished is not lost on us. This decision underscores the need to end the economic warfare against Cuban families and dismantle the genocidal blockade imposed on the Cuban people. CODEPINK stands in solidarity with the Cuban people and calls for an end to the siege perpetuated by unjust policies.
The acquittal of Alexander Alazo sends a chilling message that politically motivated violence against embassies will be tolerated, further eroding diplomatic norms and endangering lives. We join voices across the globe in demanding accountability and justice for this reprehensible act.
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