United States and Cuban diplomats exchange shouts at United Nations

United States Ambassador to the United Nations Mike Waltz engaged in a shouting match with Cuba foreign minister, Bruno Rodríguez, on the floor of the General Assembly on Tuesday. The Washington Examiner and the New York Post both reported that the confrontation occurred while Waltz was giving a speech criticizing the Cuban government. [1][2]

During his address, Waltz accused the leadership in Havana of profiting from forced labor in concentration camps and taking over private businesses, farms, and homes, according to the New York Post. As Waltz spoke, members of the Cuban delegation interrupted him by shouting, banging on their table, and requesting a point of order from the meeting chair, the Washington Examiner reported. The Washington Examiner noted that Waltz told the Cuban foreign minister to back up during the exchange. [1][2]

The diplomatic clash also included explosive insults between the officials. According to the Hindustan Times, Waltz and Rodríguez traded sharp barbs, with one party calling the other a liar during the argument. The New Republic and Fox News also reported that the two representatives yelled and clashed during the session. [3][4][5]

Waltz has served as the 32nd United States ambassador to the United Nations since September 2025. He previously worked as the national security advisor from January to May 2025 and represented Florida in the United States House of Representatives from 2019 to 2025. Waltz is a former Army Special Forces officer who served multiple combat deployments. [6][8]