Cuba criticizes US sanctions against their president on UN forum

"This is an act without any practical effect and is intended to offend the dignity of Cuba," the minister said in his 15-minute speech.

Rodriguez accused President Donald Trump's administration of trying to attract "The Cuban American Far Right " ahead of next year's US presidential election.

Earlier, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo announced that the reason for the ban is Raul Castro's support for Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro.

Pompeo also accused Castro of violating human rights in Cuba by continuing to serve as secretary-general of the ruling Communist Party.