US sanctions more Cuban companies and officials

The United States has imposed new sanctions on Cuban officials and companies, according to Secretary of State Marco Rubio. The latest measures target nine state-owned mining, metal, and building firms, the Ministry of Construction, and officials associated with the Cuban Institute of Friendship with the Peoples (ICAP). Rubio stated that these individuals were involved in bringing international sympathizers to Havana to network with regime officials, coinciding with Fidel Castro's 100th birthday. He accused them of exporting Marxism and promoting subversive anti-American activities. Cuba has previously denounced sanctions imposed by the Trump administration. The ICAP, founded in 1960, has been used by the Cuban government to foster international ties and promote pro-Cuban government campaigns abroad.

The United States has imposed new economic sanctions on nine Cuban state-owned entities, including mining, metal, and construction companies, as well as government-controlled import firms. The US Treasury Department announced these measures, which also target three leaders at the Cuban Institute of Friendship with the Peoples (ICAP). Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated these companies help sustain the Cuban regime and accused ICAP of organizing a "subversive network." These sanctions are part of the Trump administration's "maximum pressure" campaign aimed at destabilizing Cuba's economy, which has already led to blackouts and medical shortages, prompting warnings of a humanitarian crisis from UN officials. The administration justifies the sanctions by claiming Cuba poses a national security threat to the US.