United States Sanctions Raúl Castro’s Grandson and Cuba’s Banco Exterior

Washington has expanded its sanctions campaign against Cuba, targeting Fidel Ernesto Castro Calis, a grandson of former president Raúl Castro, and Banco Exterior de Cuba.

The U.S. State Department also listed several companies linked to Cuba’s energy sector. Washington said those companies contribute to the use of the country’s resources for the benefit of the island’s authorities. Banco Exterior de Cuba is a state institution focused mainly on foreign trade operations and international transactions.

The sanctions prohibit financial and commercial dealings with the designated people and organizations. They also block any assets they hold under U.S. jurisdiction. The move adds to restrictions imposed in recent months on Cuban officials, including President Miguel Díaz-Canel, and members of the Castro family.

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These designations reflect President Trump’s unshakable vision of a free Cuba.

Marco Rubio, the U.S. secretary of state, said the designations reflected “President Trump’s unshakable vision of a free Cuba.” The administration has tightened its policy toward Havana alongside actions against Venezuela’s government and has continued pressing for changes to Cuba’s political and economic system.

The measures come as Cuba faces deeper economic difficulties after Trump’s government imposed an oil blockade on the island. Trump has also repeatedly warned that the United States could “take control” of Cuba, while maintaining pressure on Havana.

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take control