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United States President Donald Trump on Friday signed an executive order imposing fresh sanctions on Cuba, targeting a wide range of individuals and sectors within the communist-run country while also warning foreign financial institutions against engaging with them.
The measures form part of an intensified policy by the Trump administration aimed at increasing pressure on Havana, which is currently grappling with a severe economic downturn following disruptions to oil supplies from Venezuela.
Under the new directive, sanctions will apply to individuals operating across key segments of the Cuban economy, including energy, defence, metals and mining, financial services, and security. The order also gives the US government authority to extend restrictions to any other sector it deems relevant.
Additionally, Cuban officials accused of involvement in serious human rights violations or corruption will be sanctioned. Those listed under the measures will be barred from entering the United States.
The order further authorises punitive actions against foreign banks and financial institutions that conduct transactions with sanctioned individuals or entities, expanding the scope of the restrictions beyond Cuba’s borders.
The latest sanctions come despite recent diplomatic engagements between Washington and Havana, including visits by senior US officials to the island in April.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, a longtime critic of the Cuban government, has consistently advocated for sweeping reforms in the country.
Cuba, located about 145 kilometres from Florida, has been under a longstanding US trade embargo since the 1959 revolution led by Fidel Castro.
President Trump has also previously suggested the possibility of stronger US involvement in the island nation, signalling a more assertive approach toward Cuba.
Trump imposes fresh sanctions on Cuba, targets key economic sectors
