US Sanctions Cuban President Diaz-Canel as Pressure on Havana Intensifies
The United States has imposed sanctions on Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel, escalating pressure on Cuba’s leadership amid worsening economic conditions on the island.
The measures, announced by the US Treasury, also target members of Diaz-Canel’s family, including his wife and stepson, as well as relatives of former Cuban president Raul Castro. Cuban military institutions and state-linked organisations, including the Committees for the Defense of the Revolution, were also sanctioned.
Washington says its actions are aimed at increasing pressure on Cuba’s communist government, which it accuses of threatening US security. The move comes as Cuba continues to face severe food shortages, fuel crises, and prolonged blackouts, with electricity cuts lasting up to 22 hours in some areas.
US sanctions on Cuba have existed for decades, but recent measures have intensified under President Donald Trump, who has signalled a tougher approach toward left-wing governments in the region. He has described Cuba as economically “collapsed” and suffering from shortages of food, energy, and funding.
Cuban President Diaz-Canel accused Washington of deepening the blockade and worsening conditions for ordinary citizens, while Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez condemned the sanctions as “vile” and interventionist.
Cuba remains heavily dependent on external aid shipments as its economic crisis continues to deepen.
