United States expands sanctions against Cuban president and Castro family members

Friday 05 June 2026 - 07:15

The United States has intensified its pressure on Cuba by imposing new economic sanctions on several senior Cuban figures, including President Miguel Díaz-Canel and members of the Castro family. The measures reflect the continued tensions between Washington and Havana amid longstanding political disagreements and human rights concerns.

According to U.S. authorities, the sanctions target individuals considered influential within Cuba’s political and security structures. President Díaz-Canel had previously been subjected to U.S. restrictions linked to allegations concerning the government's response to anti-government demonstrations that took place in 2021.

Reacting to the announcement, the Cuban president strongly criticized Washington’s decision, describing it as another example of hostile policies toward the island. Cuban officials argue that such measures contribute to economic hardship and further complicate relations between the two neighboring countries.

Among those affected are relatives of former Cuban leader Raúl Castro, including his son Alejandro Castro Espín, a prominent figure who played an important role in the diplomatic negotiations that led to the restoration of formal relations between Cuba and the United States in 2015. Other individuals linked to the Cuban leadership and state institutions have also been included in the sanctions package.

The latest measures come at a time when relations between Washington and Havana remain strained. Despite periods of diplomatic rapprochement in the past, political differences, economic restrictions, and mutual accusations continue to shape the relationship between the two countries.

Analysts note that the sanctions are likely to deepen existing tensions while reinforcing the broader debate over the effectiveness of economic pressure as a tool of foreign policy. For Cuba, the new restrictions add to the challenges facing an economy already dealing with inflation, shortages, and limited access to international financing.