US: US slaps fresh sanctions on Cuban president, family members

By Zuleihat Owuiye, Nigeria

The United States has announced a new round of economic sanctions targeting Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel, members of his immediate family and relatives of the influential Castro family as Washington intensifies pressure on the communist-led nation.

Among those affected are Díaz-Canel, his wife and stepson, as well as the son and a grandson of former Cuban leader Raúl Castro, who remains a prominent figure in the country’s political landscape despite no longer holding public office.

The sanctions also extend to Cuba’s Ministry of the Revolutionary Armed Forces and several other entities linked to the government.

The latest measures mark another step in the Trump administration’s efforts to increase economic and political pressure on the island nation. The United States has maintained an embargo against Cuba for decades, but restrictions have tightened significantly in recent months.

The sanctions come amid Cuba’s ongoing economic and energy challenges, which have been worsened by increased pressure on the country’s access to fuel and international financial networks.

Earlier this year, Washington also imposed visa restrictions on Díaz-Canel and several senior Cuban officials, while continuing to expand sanctions against key government institutions and individuals.

President Trump has repeatedly suggested that Cuba could face further pressure similar to measures previously directed at Venezuela. 

His administration argues that the sanctions are aimed at holding Cuban leaders accountable and encouraging political change.

Cuban officials have strongly condemned the move, describing it as interference in the country’s internal affairs and vowing to resist external pressure.

The latest developments add to growing tensions between Washington and Havana as both countries remain at odds over issues ranging from governance and human rights to economic policy and national sovereignty.