The United States has imposed new economic sanctions on Cuba's President Miguel Diaz-Canel, his wife and stepson, as well as members of the Castro family, including the son and grandson of former President Raúl Castro. The Treasury Department also sanctioned the Ministry of the Revolutionary Armed Forces and several other entities.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced the measures, stating that anyone providing services to the listed entities 'is at risk of sanctions themselves'. He added that foreign banks and companies should freeze activities with these actors. The sanctions aim to disrupt what Rubio described as a network enabling Cuba's 'subversive and radical operations'.
The move follows a de facto fuel blockade that has deepened Cuba's energy crisis and weakened its economy. The US has maintained an embargo on Cuba for decades, but President Donald Trump has intensified pressure in recent months, openly suggesting the US could take over the island.
Rubio said the US 'will no longer tolerate radical Marxist regimes' exporting their 'poisonous and evil revolution'. The sanctions also target the Cuban Institute of Friendship with the Peoples, Amistur Cuba, and the Committees for the Defense of the Revolution. This action comes after visa restrictions were imposed on Cuban officials in 2025.
