Cuba’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has welcomed the United States’ decision to remove Cuba from its list of countries that allegedly sponsor terrorism. The move, announced on January 14, 2025, is seen as a step in the right direction, but Cuba criticizes the ongoing economic blockade, which remains in force.
The US decision includes three key measures: removing Cuba from the terrorism list, preventing US courts from taking action on lawsuits related to Title III of the Helms-Burton Act, and eliminating the list of restricted Cuban entities. Cuba views these moves as limited but positive, acknowledging the sustained demand by the Cuban government and people, as well as international calls for change.
However, Cuba emphasizes that the economic blockade, in place since 1960, continues to damage the Cuban economy and impact the population severely. The blockade restricts fuel supplies, medical cooperation, financial transactions, and trade, violating international law and human rights.
Cuba’s Foreign Ministry expresses gratitude to governments, organizations, and individuals who have supported Cuba’s demand for an end to the blockade. The ministry reiterates Cuba’s willingness to develop a respectful relationship with the US, based on dialogue and non-interference, despite differences.
In the past, the US had designated Cuba as a State Sponsor of Terrorism in 1982, but this designation was rescinded in 2015 ². The latest US decision is seen as a rectification of a “cruel and unjust policy,” but Cuba remains cautious, aware that the US government could reverse these measures in the future.
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