Biden’s Cuba Move: A Shift in Terror Status and Global Diplomacy?

Man speaking into a microphone outdoors

The Biden administration’s decision to remove Cuba from the terrorism list marks a historic shift in U.S.-Cuba relations and human rights ambitions.

At a Glance

  • Biden administration plans to lift Cuba’s designation as a state sponsor of terrorism.
  • The move aims to release 553 political prisoners in Cuba.
  • Economic pressures on Cuba are set to ease, with some sanctions lifted.
  • Republicans, including Marco Rubio and Ted Cruz, criticize the decision and plan to reverse it.

Lifting the Terrorism Designation

The Biden administration announced plans to remove Cuba from the list of state sponsors of terrorism. This move, facilitated by negotiations involving the Catholic Church, is part of a deal to release approximately 553 political prisoners detained after the July 2021 protests. The administration asserts there is “no credible evidence” supporting Cuba’s current designation as a supporter of international terrorism.

Biden’s decision aligns with his broader policy focus on human rights and diplomatic engagement. The administration’s actions also include easing economic pressures by rescinding previous sanctions and issuing a waiver for the Helms-Burton Act. Opponents argue these decisions could be swiftly reversed by the incoming Trump administration.

Impact on U.S.-Cuba Relations

The Biden administration’s policy shift has potential diplomatic and economic implications for both nations. Cuban officials expressed gratitude, viewing the decision as an opportunity for more respectful U.S.-Cuba relations. The removal of the terrorism designation could lead to future dialogue and cooperation, enhancing the economic conditions for Cuban citizens and facilitating U.S. business opportunities.

Today’s decision is unacceptable on its merits. The terrorism advanced by the Cuban regime has not ceased. I will work with President Trump and my colleagues to immediately reverse and limit the damage from the decision.” – Ted Cruz

While Biden’s decision aims to bolster economic improvement and human rights in Cuba, skepticism remains among conservative lawmakers. They argue that the administration has prematurely lifted this designation and has ignored Cuba’s ongoing support for oppressive regimes. Senator Ted Cruz and others pledge to collaborate with the incoming Trump administration to repeal Biden’s decision swiftly.

Criticism and Future Developments

Critics, including Texas Senator Ted Cruz, are vocal in their dissatisfaction. Cruz emphasized the continuation of Cuba’s alleged terrorist activities, pledging to reverse the decision amidst bipartisan backlash. Florida Senator Marco Rubio, whose family fled Cuba pre-revolution, reportedly plans to advocate for revisiting these sanctions in his prospective role as Secretary of State during the Trump administration.

“Look. Anything that they’re doing right now we can do back, and no one should be under any illusion in terms of a change in Cuba policy.” – Rep. Mike Waltz

Despite the decision, speculation surrounds Trump’s potential foreign policy concerning Cuba. Republican officers have assured a strategic review and likely reversal as they retake office. White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre notes that Biden’s decision was influenced by discussions with Latin American leaders who encouraged action on improving human rights for Cuba’s people.

Sources:

  1. Joe Biden moves to lift state sponsor of terrorism designation for Cuba, part of deal to free prisoners
  2. Biden moves to lift state sponsor of terrorism designation for Cuba, part of deal to free prisoners | Politics | gazette.com
  3. Biden administration will remove Cuba’s designation as a state sponsor of terrorism – DNyuz