Cuba has announced the release of 553 political prisoners following the Biden administration’s decision to remove Cuba from the list of state sponsors of terrorism. The Catholic Church negotiated with the Cuban government for their release, as most of them were jailed after protests in July 2021. The crackdown led to over 1,000 arrests, with many facing long prison sentences. Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel thanked those involved in the decision and acknowledged the high cost to the country and families.
Before Cuba’s announcement, the Biden administration had initiated actions to support the Catholic Church and remove Cuba from the terrorism list. President-elect Donald Trump had added Cuba to the list shortly before leaving office, but Biden reversed this decision. Some Cuban American politicians, including Sen. Ted Cruz, criticized Biden’s actions and vowed to work with Trump to reverse them.
Havana residents welcomed the news, seeing potential benefits for the country. In addition to removing Cuba from the terrorism list, the Biden administration issued a waiver for the Helms Burton Act to allow lawsuits against foreign companies related to properties confiscated by the Cuban government.
The administration also rescinded a memorandum that imposed economic pressure on Cuba. These actions are seen as part of a broader strategy to focus on human rights in Cuba and benefit the Cuban people. Speculation over the influence of Sen. Marco Rubio and the direction of Trump’s foreign policy continues.
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