US imposes new sanctions on Cuban president, Castro family members

The United States has intensified its pressure on Cuba by announcing fresh economic sanctions targeting President Miguel Diaz-Canel, his immediate family, and members of the influential Castro family. The Treasury Department's latest actions also extend to the Ministry of the Revolutionary Armed Forces and various other Cuban entities.

Among those sanctioned are the son and grandson of former president Raul Castro, who, despite no longer holding an official position, remains a key figure in shaping the island's future. President Diaz-Canel, his wife, and his stepson were also directly affected by these new Treasury sanctions.

These measures mark a significant escalation in US policy toward its communist-led neighbor. While a comprehensive embargo on Cuba has been in place for decades, the Trump administration has notably increased pressure in recent months. This includes a de facto fuel blockade that has exacerbated the island's energy crisis and severely impacted its already fragile economy.

The latest sanctions follow a pattern of increased US actions, including visa restrictions imposed in 2025 on the Cuban president and other high-ranking government officials. The US has repeatedly signaled its intent to exert further pressure, with President Trump having previously suggested Cuba could be the next target after Venezuela.