Trump expands US sanctions on Cuba with new executive order

US President Donald Trump has signed an executive order expanding sanctions against the Cuban government, according to two White House officials cited by Reuters. The move is aimed at increasing pressure on Havana as part of a broader US foreign policy push in the region.

The new sanctions target individuals, entities, and affiliates that support Cuba’s security apparatus or are involved in corruption and serious human rights violations. They also extend to government agents, officials, and supporters linked to the Cuban state system.

While it is not immediately clear who has been specifically designated under the order, the White House stated that the measures could apply to any foreign individual or organisation operating in key sectors of Cuba’s economy. These sectors include energy, defence, metals and mining, financial services, and security, as well as any other part of the Cuban economic system.

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The order also introduces secondary sanctions, meaning foreign companies or individuals that conduct or facilitate transactions with sanctioned parties could themselves face penalties.

Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel strongly criticised the move, calling it part of what he described as a “brutal and genocidal blockade” against the island nation. He argued that the sanctions are intended to inflict collective punishment on the Cuban population. Cuba’s foreign minister Bruno Rodriguez also condemned the measures, saying the Cuban people would not be intimidated.

US officials, however, defended the decision, claiming Cuba provides a safe environment for hostile intelligence and militant activity close to US territory. The Trump administration has repeatedly accused Cuba of aligning with countries and groups such as Iran and Hezbollah.

The sanctions come amid already strained relations between Washington and Havana, with the US maintaining long-standing economic restrictions and demanding political and economic reforms in Cuba. Analysts say the latest measures represent one of the most significant escalations in US pressure on Cuba in recent years.