WASHINGTON, — The United States has announced a new round of sanctions against Cuba’s Armed Forces Minister General Alvaro Lopez Miera, seven senior military officials, and five state-owned entities over their alleged involvement in foreign military cooperation and arms procurement.
According to the US State Department, the sanctions target officials and organizations linked to Cuba’s Ministry of the Revolutionary Armed Forces (MINFAR) that are accused of supporting military acquisitions and international defense cooperation.
Military Officials and State Entities Targeted
The sanctions also apply to several senior Cuban military leaders, including:
- The Chief of the General Staff
- Officials overseeing foreign relations and military economic affairs
- Cuban military attachés stationed in China and Russia
Five state-owned entities were also sanctioned for allegedly facilitating the procurement of military equipment from countries that Washington considers strategic competitors, including China and Russia.
US Cites Security Concerns
The State Department said the measures follow its July 20 report titled “Cuba: The Capital of 21st Century Communism.”
More Read
According to the report, Cuba has continued expanding military cooperation with Russia and China, receiving defense equipment, surveillance technology, and other security capabilities.
Washington said the sanctions are intended to disrupt networks involved in military procurement and foreign defense cooperation.
UN Experts Raise Humanitarian Concerns
Earlier on Thursday, United Nations experts warned that expanding US sanctions could push Cuba into a deeper humanitarian and economic crisis.
The experts said restrictions on fuel supplies and other economic measures have contributed to shortages, electricity outages, and disruptions to transportation, healthcare, irrigation, and other essential public services.
They also warned that vulnerable groups, including women, children, and older people, are being disproportionately affected by the country’s worsening economic conditions.
US Pressure on Cuba Continues
President Donald Trump has increased economic pressure on Cuba in recent months through additional sanctions and restrictions.
The US administration says the measures are aimed at increasing pressure on Cuba’s ruling Communist government and limiting its military capabilities.
The latest sanctions mark another step in Washington’s broader strategy toward Latin America and come amid continued tensions over regional security and international alliances.
