The Biden administration is set to remove Cuba from its terrorism list, aiding political prisoners
Washington: The Biden administration has informed Congress that it will take Cuba off the list of state sponsors of terrorism. This move is part of a deal aimed at freeing political prisoners held by Cuba’s communist government.
Officials say the agreement was brokered through the Catholic Church and was announced just days before Biden leaves office. It’s a significant shift, especially since Trump had labeled Cuba a state sponsor of terrorism back in 2021.
A senior official mentioned that an assessment showed no evidence supporting Cuba’s designation as a terrorist state. They highlighted that the Catholic Church is playing a key role in facilitating the release of many political prisoners.
Trump’s earlier designation had imposed strict sanctions on Cuba, affecting trade and foreign assistance. Removing this designation could ease some of the humanitarian issues faced by the island, which is close to Florida.
However, Trump might reconsider this designation after taking office again. Some Republican lawmakers are already voicing their discontent, with Senator Rick Scott calling Biden’s decision a “parting gift to dictators.”
Scott criticized the move, saying it empowers Cuba’s leaders who oppress their people. He plans to work with Trump to hold the Cuban regime accountable and support the Cuban people.
More details soon…
