Reversal of Biden’s Decision
Shortly after his inauguration, Trump annulled several of Biden’s executive orders, including the removal of Cuba from the US terror list. The White House announced the decision just hours after Trump took office.
Biden’s administration had agreed to remove Cuba from the list if the country released 553 prisoners, including opposition figures detained during the 2021 mass protests. In response, Cuba pledged to free the prisoners, and several were already released last week, including prominent dissident Daniel Ferrer.
Criticism from China and Russia
China denounced the move as a display of US “tyranny.” A Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson called the terror list baseless and a reflection of US arrogance and hegemony. Meanwhile, Russia condemned the decision as an attempt to tighten economic restrictions on Cuba. Russian foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova labeled the action unjustified, emphasizing Cuba’s active role in global counterterrorism efforts.
Impacts on Cuba
The reinstatement of Cuba on the terror list complicates foreign investments and exacerbates the economic strain on the island. Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel accused Trump of arrogance and of intensifying an economic war against Cuba. He argued the decision aimed to dominate the nation further.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, of Cuban descent, justified the reinstatement, stating that Cuba meets all criteria for being a state sponsor of terrorism. During a Senate hearing, Rubio reiterated his strong opposition to Cuba’s communist government.
Growing Tensions
Russia warned that such measures worsen Cuba’s economic hardships and provoke social discontent. Russia pledged continued support for Cuba against the US embargo, which it called illegal and inhumane. The two countries have strengthened ties in recent years, with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov visiting Cuba in 2022 to solidify relations.
Trump’s decision signals a renewed hardline stance on Cuba, reigniting tensions both regionally and internationally.