U.S. Sanctions Target Cuban Officials, Entities Over Alleged Subversion Efforts

The U.S. State Department announced sanctions on three people and nine entities, including the leadership of the Cuban Institute for Friendship with the Peoples (ICAP) and Cuba's Ministry of Construction. Companies tied to Cuba's metals and mining sector were also among the sanctioned organizations. Secretary of State Marco Rubio alleged that ICAP played a role in supporting a broad network operating under the guise of educational and cultural exchange programs in the U.S., aimed at identifying, organizing, and radicalizing disruptive elements.

The new measures follow an executive order signed by President Donald Trump in May that expanded sanctions against Cuban government officials, security forces, and individuals and entities supporting them. The U.S. continues to widen its sanctions list targeting the Cuban government and people and organizations linked to Havana. The sanctions were announced as part of Washington's ongoing pressure campaign against the Cuban government.