Biden to remove Cuba from terrorism list

Donald Trump blacklisted Havana in the final days of his first term and could reverse the decision again

President Joe Biden has notified Congress of his intent to remove Cuba from the US list of state sponsors of terrorism, aiming to facilitate the release of “political prisoners” through a deal brokered by the Catholic Church, the White House has announced.

Senior US administration officials told the Associated Press on Tuesday that “many dozens” of detainees whom Washington considers “unjustly” held would be released by the end of Biden’s term on January 20. In exchange, Washington plans to ease some economic pressures on Havana, including reversing aspects of a 2017 memorandum that had toughened the US stance toward Cuba.

“In taking these steps to bolster the ongoing dialogue between the government of Cuba and the Catholic Church, President Biden is also honoring the wisdom and counsel that has been provided to him by many world leaders,” White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre confirmed in a statement.

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The Cuban government described the US decision as a “step in the right direction” but stressed that most of the economic blockade and sanctions remain in force, continuing to hinder the island’s development. Havana highlighted that ongoing fuel import restrictions, trade bans, and financial penalties severely impact its population.

Cuba also criticized the timing of the decision, noting it came near the end of Biden’s presidency and warning that the incoming administration of President-elect Donald Trump could undo the measures.

“This is a rectification introduced on the verge of a change of government… when it should have been materialized years ago,” the Cuban Foreign Ministry said.

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Trump reinstated Cuba’s designation as a state sponsor of terrorism in January 2021, citing support for Venezuela’s Nicolas Maduro and sheltering US fugitives. Biden had backed Cuba’s removal from the list during former President Barack Obama’s tenure but up until now did not reverse Trump’s policy, even imposing additional sanctions during his time in office.

Trump’s transition team has yet to confirm whether the President-elect will reverse the move. Several Republican lawmakers criticized Biden’s action. Senator Ted Cruz (R-Texas) called the decision “unacceptable on its merits” and pledged to work with Trump to “immediately reverse” it. Representative Carlos Gimenez (R-Florida) also condemned the move, calling Biden a “pathetic coward.”