The U.S. State Department has swiftly moved to reverse major last-minute policy shifts on Cuba introduced by the previous administration, reaffirming a hardline stance within the first two weeks of President Donald Trump’s term.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced that, on his first day in office, President Trump ensured Cuba remained on the State Sponsors of Terrorism (SST) list. Rubio emphasized that the Cuban regime has a long history of supporting international terrorism, urging it to cease aiding foreign criminals while its own citizens struggle with shortages of food and medicine.
In a letter to congressional committees on January 29, Rubio withdrew the previous administration’s notice concerning the LIBERTAD Act. He reaffirmed the Trump administration’s commitment to allowing U.S. individuals to pursue legal action over property confiscated by the Cuban government.
Further strengthening restrictions, Rubio approved the re-establishment of the Cuba Restricted List on January 31. This list prevents transactions with entities controlled by the Cuban military, intelligence, and security services. He noted that the revised list includes Orbit, S.A., a remittance-processing firm linked to the Cuban military. By reinstating and expanding these restrictions, the administration aims to cut off resources to those responsible for repressing the Cuban population and dominating large portions of the country’s economy.
The State Department stressed its commitment to holding the Cuban government accountable for human rights abuses and its interference in regional affairs. U.S. officials in Havana are actively engaging with dissidents and families of political prisoners, reinforcing America’s steadfast support for the Cuban people. The administration continues to demand the release of unjustly detained political prisoners and pledges to support fundamental freedoms in Cuba.
Bd-pratidin English/ Jisan
