The embargo on Iraq severely limits the amount of funds that Hussein can spend on weapons of mass destruction development. Iraq has also been contained within its own borders since the embargo began, as has been North Korea and Cuba.
When Cuba had CCCP funds, it was sending tanks and troops to Syria for aiding the 1973 offensive against Israel, to Angola for propping up Communists, and to Nicaragua (as well as other South America countries). With the embargo in place and with CCCP funds finally cut off, Cuba has been much less involved in foreign wars.
Perhaps that's what troubles you the most...