The United States has imposed new economic sanctions on Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel, his wife, and several family members, alongside the Cuban military and members of the Castro family. Targeted individuals include the son and grandson of former president Raúl Castro, who no longer holds an official position but remains a key figure in decisions about the island's future.
These penalties, listed on the Treasury Department website, freeze the property and bank accounts of the targeted individuals and entities within the US. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio warned that any party providing services to these listed entities is at risk of facing sanctions themselves.
The measures follow an executive order signed by President Donald Trump to expand sanctions against the island. This escalation comes as Trump has discussed taking over the country and has threatened military action since the ousting of Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro in January. The administration has also implemented an energy blockade that has choked off fuel shipments to Cuba.
This increased pressure on the communist-led government arrives as Cuba continues to struggle with widespread blackouts and food shortages.