US hits Cuba’s President with sweeping new sanctions
President of Cuba Miguel Díaz-Canel (Photo: Getty Images)
The US has announced the introduction of new economic sanctions against the political leadership of Cuba. The restrictions target the current president of the country, his inner circle, and members of the Castro family, reports The Guardian.
This time, the US Treasury Department's sanctions have directly hit the families of the leaders of the communist regime. The list of updated restrictions turned out to be unexpectedly broad.
The following individuals and entities have been included in the blacklist:
- The son and grandson of former President Raúl Castro;
- The current President of Cuba, Miguel Díaz-Canel;
- The wife and stepson of the Cuban leader;
- The Ministry of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Cuba.
Raúl Castro no longer holds official positions on the island, but he remains the main figure in determining the country's political future. The financial restrictions have now affected his closest relatives.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio warned the international community that financial restrictions will affect anyone who tries to help the blacklisted institutions or individuals. Rubio emphasized that the US is targeting the network that supports and finances Cuba's subversive and radical operations.
"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," Rubio said.
In addition to Cuba's military, the Cuban Institute of Friendship with Peoples, Amistad Cuba, and the Committees for the Defense of the Revolution have also been placed under sanctions.
What is the situation between Cuba and the US
The US continues its maritime blockade of the island. Cuba is suffering from total blackouts. Meanwhile, work is ongoing on studying scenarios for military options to present to US President Donald Trump.
At the same time, the Cuban authorities do not intend to yield without resistance. Earlier, it was reported that Cuba had purchased drones to strengthen its defensive capabilities amid tensions with the US.
