In early 2025, the United States intensified pressure on the Cuban government, reversing previous efforts to ease sanctions.
On January 21, 2025, the Trump administration re-designated Cuba as a state sponsor of terrorism. This move reinstates strict controls on U.S. exports, foreign aid, and visa requirements. It also freezes Cuba's international financial transactions that might pass through U.S. entities.
On February 17, 2025, Senators Rick Scott and Tommy Tuberville reintroduced the Democracia Act. The Act aims to impose severe sanctions on the Cuban government and third parties. The bill targets members of the Cuban government, military, judiciary, and their families.
These actions represent a shift in U.S. policy towards Cuba. The goal is to limit the Cuban government's access to resources and influence its policies. The re-designation and new legislation reflect a more confrontational approach.
On June 30th, President Donald Trump signed a memorandum by which the United States will tighten its policy towards Cuba. According to the memorandum, the U.S. will end economic practices that disproportionately benefit the Cuban government, military, intelligence, or security services at the expense of the Cuban people, the document states. The memorandum confirms the ban on tourism from the U.S. to Cuba, supports the economic embargo of Cuba, and opposes measures to lift it in the United Nations (UN) and other international forums. The document also mandates a review of human rights violations in Cuba, including unlawful detentions and inhumane treatment.