The United States announced new sanctions on Thursday targeting members of Cuba’s ruling elite, a state-owned bank, and four companies connected to the country’s energy, metals and mining industries.
The US State Department said the measures are part of the Trump administration’s broader campaign against what Washington describes as repression by the Cuban government and activities that threaten US national security and regional stability.
One of the individuals targeted is Fidel Ernesto Castro Calis, the grandson of former Cuban President Raul Castro. Washington said the sanctions were imposed under an executive order signed by President Donald Trump in May.
The US also sanctioned Banco Exterior de Cuba, citing its involvement in Cuba’s financial sector. Four additional entities were targeted because of their roles in natural resources and energy, including nickel and cobalt production as well as petroleum procurement and commercial operations.
The sanctions will freeze the US-based assets of the designated individuals and organizations. US citizens and companies are also prohibited from conducting transactions with the sanctioned parties unless they receive authorization from the US Treasury Department.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio defended the measures, saying the Cuban government continues to pose a significant threat to American national security and stability in the region. He accused the Castro family and officials linked to the government of maintaining control over Cuba’s economy and said the latest sanctions were aimed at networks supporting the country’s financial, mining and energy sectors.
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