The United States has imposed new economic sanctions on Cuba's President Miguel Diaz-Canel, his immediate family, and members of the Castro family, escalating pressure on the communist-led island nation. The sanctions, announced by the US Treasury Department on Thursday, target Diaz-Canel, his wife, and stepson, along with the son and grandson of former President Raul Castro, who remains influential in Cuban decision-making despite holding no official office.
Sanctions Target Key Figures and Institutions
The Treasury's latest actions also include sanctions against the Ministry of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Cuba, the Cuban Institute of Friendship with the Peoples, Amistur Cuba, and the Committees for the Defense of the Revolution. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated on X that the US is "targeting the network that enables and funds Cuba's subversive and radical operations" and will "no longer tolerate radical Marxist regimes" exporting their "poisonous and evil 'revolution'" to the US and elsewhere.
Warning to Foreign Entities
Rubio warned that "anyone providing services to these sanctioned actors is at risk of sanctions themselves. Foreign banks and other companies that provide services to these entities should freeze those activities." This move follows a 2025 decision to restrict visas for the Cuban president and other high-ranking officials.
Escalating US Pressure on Cuba
The US has maintained an embargo on Cuba for decades, but under President Donald Trump, pressure has intensified. Trump has publicly considered taking over the island, and a de facto fuel blockade has worsened Cuba's energy crisis and fragile economy. Trump has signaled that Cuba could be the next target after Venezuela to face US pressure, as the administration continues to tighten the economic screws on the Castro regime.
