US Imposes Sanctions on Nine Cuban State-Owned Companies and Senior Officials

September 21, Kathmandu – The United States has announced additional economic sanctions against the communist country of Cuba. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio unveiled a new phase of sanctions targeting Cuban government officials and companies. The latest sanctions include nine state-owned mining, metals, and construction companies, the Cuban Ministry of Construction, and officials associated with an international organization based in Cuba. In a statement, Rubio accused the named individuals of engaging with a “new group of international supporters” brought to Havana to mark the 100th birthday of former Cuban leader Fidel Castro, aiming to expand contacts with Cuban government officials. He further asserted that these individuals are part of a global campaign to promote Marxism, ethnic discord, and communist violence worldwide.

Rubio stated, “The sanctions announced today tighten those imposed by the Trump administration and send a clear signal that the Cuban regime will no longer economically sustain its repression and decades of anti-American activities.”

Sanctions also target Cuban institute

The US has also imposed sanctions on the leadership of Cuba’s Institute of Friendship with the Peoples (ICAP), established by Fidel Castro in 1960. ICAP has expanded relations with pro-Cuba organizations worldwide. According to the US, the institute invites pro-Cuban activists from various countries for visits and supports campaigns linked to the Cuban government. Rubio accused ICAP of attempting to mislead and corrupt US citizens “through lies, espionage technology, and illegal activities.” Among those sanctioned is ICAP’s president, Fernando Gonzalez Lorth, a former member of the “Cuban Five” espionage group who was released during the prisoner swap that improved US-Cuba relations under the Obama administration.

Challenges in delivering basic services to Cuban people

The Cuban government has consistently condemned all US sanctions. Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez strongly denounced Rubio’s recent announcement. Speaking via social media platform X, Rodriguez accused Rubio of attempting to punish Cuban companies, which would further damage Cuba’s economy. He claimed US sanctions have made it difficult for the Cuban government to provide basic services to its people and that the blockade has already severely weakened Cuba’s fragile situation. Previously, the US had sanctioned senior officials and institutions in Cuba’s energy, financial, and defense sectors. Additionally, the country’s vital tourism sector has also been declining.

Energy crisis worsens due to disruptions in oil supply

Since the beginning of this year, the US has imposed an effective embargo on Cuban oil imports. Cuba’s heavy dependency on fuel imports and aging electrical infrastructure have worsened its energy crisis. Due to fuel shortages, hospitals have had to rely on emergency generators. Frequent and prolonged power outages have led to rare protests in some areas. The government tightly controls public dissent, and those involved in demonstrations face lengthy prison sentences.