Cuba has accused the United States of intensifying economic and political pressure by targeting the island’s most powerful military-linked economic structure, the Business Administration Group (GAE).
Cuban authorities claim that the GAE, created in the 1990s under the leadership of Raúl Castro, plays a central role in sustaining the national economy. It manages key sectors including tourism, industry, and financial services, and is controlled by the Cuban Armed Forces. While the government presents it as a stabilizing force and economic backbone, critics argue it reflects excessive concentration of power and limited transparency.
According to Cuban officials, recent US measures—reportedly directed under President Donald Trump—expand sanctions to individuals and entities engaged in business with Cuba, including foreign partners linked to GAE operations. These actions also introduce secondary sanctions, increasing pressure on international actors dealing with the conglomerate.
Cuban authorities describe the policy shift as an unprecedented escalation aimed at isolating the country economically, financially, and diplomatically. They further claim that the long-term objective is to weaken state institutions and restrict Cuba’s ability to sustain its economic system.
An executive order attributed to Trump reportedly threatens penalties for investments in Cuba and cooperation with GAE-linked entities. Cuban leaders called the move the most severe deterioration in bilateral relations in recent history.
While US critics of the GAE highlight concerns over militarization and lack of democratic oversight, Cuban officials argue that the conglomerate has been essential for national resilience. They point to infrastructure development, including housing projects, renewable energy investments, and pandemic-era support programs, as evidence of its social role.
The government maintains that the GAE is not an elite enrichment vehicle but a national instrument designed to withstand long-term external economic pressure.
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