By Eduardo Berdejo
ACI Prensa Staff, Jan 17, 2025 / 15:35 pm
The recent announcement by the Cuban government of the release of 553 prisoners has sparked controversy, with some viewing it as a strategic move to gain economic benefits from the United States. This includes the potential removal of Cuba from the list of countries sponsoring terrorism.
President Miguel Díaz-Canel’s government shared that they were releasing the prisoners as part of the Ordinary Jubilee of 2025, a decision that was conveyed to Pope Francis in a letter sent earlier this year.
While the exact number of political prisoners among those released remains unclear, the regime stated that the releases were conducted in accordance with existing legislation and that the individuals would gradually receive their benefits.
The Vatican welcomed this announcement, with Cardinal Pietro Parolin expressing optimism at the beginning of the jubilee. The releases were reportedly facilitated through ongoing mediation efforts with the Catholic Church.
Despite the positive reception from some, geopolitical expert Alberto Fernández highlighted that the regime’s actions are driven by economic and political motives, particularly in relation to the Biden administration. Fernández emphasized that the regime’s actions, despite their religious veneer, amount to a hostage exchange.
The Biden administration, set to transition to the Trump administration, has expressed intentions to remove Cuba from the list of state sponsors of terrorism, a move that has been facilitated by the Vatican. This decision marks a significant shift from past policies, notably during the Obama administration’s efforts to normalize relations with Cuba.
The Impact of Cuba’s Removal from the List of State Sponsors of Terrorism
On Jan. 11, 2021, in the final days of the Trump administration, Cuba was removed from the list of State Sponsors of Terrorism. This decision was met with mixed reactions, with some seeing it as a positive step towards normalizing relations, while others remained cautious.
The Republican administration justified its decision by stating that it aimed to cut off resources to the Castro regime, which it accused of oppressing its people and interfering in the affairs of other countries in the Western Hemisphere. However, the implications of this move are far-reaching.
Robert L. Muse, an expert in U.S. sanctions on Cuba, highlighted the potential benefits for the island nation. With its removal from the list, Cuba could see an increase in tourism, a vital sector for its economy. Travelers from the European Union, Chile, South Korea, and Japan could now visit Cuba without fear of losing their U.S. tourist visa exemption.
Additionally, Cuba may now have access to financing from foreign entities, although its financial situation remains precarious. The country has defaulted on its payments and is technically bankrupt, raising questions about the feasibility of this potential benefit.
Despite these potential advantages, there is still uncertainty looming over Cuba’s future. If Trump decides to reinstate Cuba on the list of state sponsors of terrorism, all progress made so far could be undone.
In the midst of these developments, the Catholic Church has stepped in to mediate the release of political prisoners in Cuba. This move comes after widespread protests in July 2021, where thousands of Cubans took to the streets to demand freedom and basic necessities.
As Cuba navigates this uncertain terrain, the world watches with bated breath to see how these recent changes will shape the future of the island nation.
