The Biden administration plans to remove Cuba from the U.S. list of state sponsors of terrorism, according to anonymous U.S. officials. This move reverses a decision made during the final days of former President Donald Trump’s administration. White House officials have declined to comment publicly on the anticipated announcement.
Cuba was originally placed on the terrorism list in 1982, but the Obama administration removed the designation in 2015 as part of efforts to normalize relations. However, the Trump administration reinstated the designation on January 11, 2021, citing Cuba’s support for Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro, its refusal to extradite Colombian rebels, and its harboring of fugitives from U.S. justice. These actions were seen as evidence of Cuba’s continued involvement in activities deemed harmful to global and regional stability.
The expected decision to lift the designation has drawn scrutiny, as incoming Secretary of State-designate Marco Rubio is known for his staunch opposition to easing restrictions on Cuba. Rubio, whose family fled the island before Fidel Castro’s communist revolution, has consistently advocated for sanctions and criticized the Cuban regime’s human rights record. His confirmation hearing is scheduled to take place before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee on Wednesday, where his Cuban heritage and policy stance are expected to be central themes.
The removal of the designation would signal a shift in U.S. policy toward the island nation under President Biden. However, the potential for reversal remains strong if Rubio assumes leadership at the State Department. This development underscores ongoing tensions in U.S.-Cuba relations and the broader ideological divide in Washington over how to approach the communist regime.