Havana's foreign minister condemned the US embargo as 'collective punishment' and said Cuba remains open to trade and cooperation without preconditions.
Russia's foreign minister said Cuba faces unprecedented pressure from the United States and needs urgent measures to address its humanitarian situation, according to TASS.
Di Battista credited Cuban doctors with saving his life and said he wants to speak out against the US embargo on Cuba.
Havana accuses Washington of disrupting foreign trade and worsening shortages on the island nation.
In a joint statement reported by TASS, BRICS members voiced concern over tightening unilateral measures against Cuba and urged their removal.