
The Biden administration is making waves by deciding to lift Cuba’s terrorism sponsor designation while engaging in talks over political prisoner releases.
At a Glance
- The Biden administration plans to remove Cuba from the state sponsor of terrorism list.
- Cuba has agreed to release 553 political prisoners following dialogue with the Catholic Church.
- Florida lawmakers oppose the move, foreseeing potential reversals with a new administration.
- The U.S. will ease economic pressures on Cuba, reversing a Trump-era memorandum.
U.S-Cuba Relations Under Scrutiny
The decision to lift Cuba’s designation as a state sponsor of terrorism comes as part of a deal facilitated through diplomatic talks involving the Catholic Church. This negotiation has led to Cuba’s commitment to releasing 553 political prisoners by the end of President Biden’s term. Florida Republicans, alongside some Democrats, have expressed concerns over this move, highlighting potential implications for U.S. national interests.
Cuba has been under scrutiny since the Trump administration reinstated the terrorism designation, citing their support for Venezuela’s leader and other activities. The Biden administration now claims there is “no credible evidence” of Cuba supporting international terrorism. This declaration is pivotal, especially amid criticisms from notable political figures and human rights advocates pressing for policy change.
The Biden Admin's decision to lift Cuba from the list of State Sponsors of Terrorism is a disgrace & national security malpractice. The Cuban regime harbors terrorists in its own country while supporting Hamas, Hezbollah, and other global terrorists. https://t.co/TuF3r3JtOO
— Senate Foreign Relations Committee Chairman (@SenateForeign) January 14, 2025
Economic and Diplomatic Shifts
Alongside delisting, the Biden administration plans to ease economic sanctions, reversing measures set in a 2017 memorandum by former President Trump. This approach aims to relieve economic distress in Cuba, fostering an environment for improved bilateral and diplomatic relations. Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel expressed gratitude, labeling the move as vital for Cuba’s socio-economic progress.
“I thank all those who contributed to the decision announced today by the United States to remove Cuba from the list of state sponsors of terrorism, where it should never have been,” Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel.
Despite the positive outlook from Havana, skepticism remains stateside. Senator Ted Cruz has vowed to work with former President Trump to overturn the decision, asserting that Cuban terrorism remains unchanged. This opposition foretells intensified political discourse as the U.S. navigates these international waters. Cruz stated, “Today’s decision is unacceptable on its merits. The terrorism advanced by the Cuban regime has not ceased. I will work with President Trump and my colleagues to immediately reverse and limit the damage from the decision.”
The Biden administration announced on Tuesday that it will remove Cuba from the list of State Sponsors of Terrorism (SST) in exchange for the release of political prisoners jailed for protesting against the regime in July 2021. https://t.co/cbuTrszeXg
— WJHL (@WJHL11) January 15, 2025
Future Implications
The move to delist Cuba from terror designation is expected to undergo close examination and could potentially face reversal by a future administration. As this complex issue unfolds, the broader implications for U.S. foreign policy toward Cuba and the broader region will be closely monitored. The Havana government remains welcoming of dialogue opportunities, hoping for continued enhancements in diplomatic statutes.
“In taking these steps to bolster the ongoing dialogue between the government of Cuba and the Catholic Church, President Biden is also honoring the wisdom and counsel that has been provided to him by many world leaders, especially in Latin America, who have encouraged him to take these actions, on how best to advance the human rights of the Cuban people” – White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre.
With these developments, the political landscape continues to shift, echoing the calls of human rights groups and activists urging reconciliation over confrontation. The path forward, however, remains fraught with political challenges and potential contention both domestically and internationally.
Sources:
- Joe Biden moves to lift state sponsor of terrorism designation for Cuba, part of deal to free prisoners
- Biden moves to lift state sponsor of terrorism designation for Cuba, part of deal to free prisoners | Politics | gazette.com
- Biden administration will remove Cuba’s designation as a state sponsor of terrorism – DNyuz