Four years ago, thousands of Cubans took to the streets in peaceful protests demanding freedom from tyranny. The Cuban regime responded with violence and repression, detaining thousands unjustly. Over 700 individuals remain imprisoned, facing torture or abuse.
In response, the U.S. Department of State is implementing President Trump's Cuba policy as outlined in National Security Presidential Memorandum-5 from June 30, 2025. The United States is showing solidarity with the Cuban people and political prisoners by designating key regime leaders under Section 7031(c) for their involvement in human rights violations. Visa restrictions are also being imposed on numerous Cuban judicial and prison officials involved in the detention and torture of July 2021 protestors.
Additionally, the Department is updating the Cuba Restricted List and the Cuba Prohibited Accommodations List to include 11 properties linked to the regime, including a new hotel named "Torre K," to prevent U.S. funds from reaching corrupt repressors on the island.
The U.S. continues to advocate for human rights and fundamental freedoms for Cubans while making it clear that dictatorial regimes are not welcome in our hemisphere.
Designations of Díaz-Canel Bermúdez, López Miera, Álvarez Casas, and their families fall under Section 7031(c) of the Department of State's appropriations act as carried forward by recent legislation. Visa restrictions on Cuban officials are implemented under Section 212(a)(3)(C) of the Immigration and Nationality Act.
For more information, contact WHA-PDA-Press@state.gov.
