Biden removes Cuba from terrorism list, secures prisoner release deal

[UNITED STATES] The Biden administration has announced its decision to remove Cuba from the U.S. list of state sponsors of terrorism. This action comes as part of a broader agreement facilitated by the Catholic Church to secure the release of political prisoners in Cuba. The announcement, made just days before President Biden's term ends, marks a pivotal moment in U.S.-Cuba relations and has sparked both praise and criticism from various quarters.

The Decision and Its Implications

The Biden administration's decision to delist Cuba as a state sponsor of terrorism reverses a move made by former President Donald Trump in January 2021. This change in policy is based on a recent assessment that found no credible evidence to support Cuba's designation as a terrorism sponsor.

A senior Biden administration official stated, "An assessment has been completed, and we do not have information that supports Cuba's designation as being a state sponsor of terrorism". This evaluation reflects a shift in the U.S. government's stance towards Cuba and potentially paves the way for improved diplomatic relations between the two nations.

The Prisoner Release Agreement

Central to this policy change is an agreement negotiated with the help of the Catholic Church for the release of political prisoners in Cuba. The deal is expected to result in the freedom of "many dozens" of political prisoners and others considered by the U.S. to be unjustly detained.

Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel announced that his government plans to release 553 prisoners in response to the U.S. decision. This move is seen as a significant step towards addressing human rights concerns in Cuba and potentially easing tensions between the two countries.

Economic Implications

The removal of Cuba from the terrorism list is expected to have substantial economic implications. Being on the list imposed strict economic sanctions and prohibited American economic assistance and arms sales to Cuba. The delisting could potentially alleviate some of Cuba's pressing economic challenges, as numerous international banks and investors have faced difficulties operating legally in the country.

Additionally, the Biden administration plans to ease some economic pressure on Cuba and suspend certain rights of individuals to claim confiscated properties in Cuba. These actions could open avenues for increased economic engagement between the U.S. and Cuba.

Political Reactions and Future Uncertainties

The decision has elicited strong reactions from various political figures, particularly among South Florida Republicans. Congressman Carlos Gimenez labeled the move as "pathetic and cowardly," while Senator Rick Scott condemned it as a "parting gift to dictators and terrorists".

However, the long-term impact of this decision remains uncertain. With President-elect Donald Trump set to take office on January 20, there is a possibility that this policy change could be reversed. Trump's nominee for Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, a Cuban-American, has historically supported sanctions against Cuba.

Historical Context and Obama-Era Policies

This decision by the Biden administration echoes similar actions taken during the Obama presidency. In 2015, President Barack Obama removed Cuba from the terrorism list as part of his efforts to normalize relations between the two countries. Obama's policy aimed to promote democracy and opportunities for the Cuban people through engagement rather than isolation.

The Obama administration's approach led to the restoration of formal diplomatic ties with Cuba in July 2015, marking a significant shift in U.S.-Cuba relations after decades of hostility. Biden's recent decision can be seen as a continuation of this policy of engagement and diplomacy.

Cuba's Response and International Reactions

The Cuban government has welcomed the Biden administration's decision, describing it as a step in the "right direction". However, Cuban officials have also emphasized that this change is limited in scope and that broader U.S. sanctions remain in place.

International reactions to the decision have been mixed. Colombia's leftist President Gustavo Petro and the political party formed by the country's disarmed ex-FARC guerrilla group have expressed support for the move. This international backing underscores the potential regional implications of improved U.S.-Cuba relations.

Humanitarian Aspects and Human Rights Concerns

The prisoner release agreement brokered with the help of the Catholic Church highlights the humanitarian aspects of this policy change. Many of the prisoners expected to be released were arrested following the widespread anti-government protests in Cuba in 2021, which were driven by economic hardships, blackouts, and soaring food prices.

Human rights groups and activists, including the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, have been advocating for the lifting of the terrorism designation to alleviate the suffering of the Cuban people. This move is seen as a step towards addressing human rights concerns in Cuba while potentially opening channels for further dialogue on these issues.

Potential Impact on Regional Dynamics

The decision to remove Cuba from the terrorism list could have broader implications for regional dynamics in Latin America. Cuba's role in hosting peace talks between the Colombian government and FARC rebels from 2012 to 2016 demonstrates its potential as a regional mediator. Improved U.S.-Cuba relations could potentially enhance Cuba's role in regional diplomacy and conflict resolution.

Challenges and Criticisms

Despite the potential benefits, the decision faces significant challenges and criticisms. Republican lawmakers have vowed to work with the incoming Trump administration to reverse this decision. Critics argue that the move could be seen as appeasing the Cuban regime without securing substantial democratic reforms or human rights improvements.

Furthermore, concerns have been raised about Cuba's relationships with other countries designated as state sponsors of terrorism, such as North Korea and Iran. These relationships may complicate future diplomatic efforts and could be used as justification for reinstating the terrorism designation.

Looking Ahead: Uncertainties and Possibilities

As the Biden administration prepares to hand over power to the Trump administration, the future of U.S.-Cuba relations remains uncertain. The incoming administration's approach to Cuba, influenced by figures like Marco Rubio, could potentially reverse these recent changes.

However, the groundwork laid by this decision, particularly the prisoner release agreement, may create momentum for continued engagement and dialogue between the two nations. The role of the Catholic Church in facilitating this agreement could also provide a channel for ongoing negotiations and humanitarian efforts.

The Biden administration's decision to remove Cuba from the list of state sponsors of terrorism, coupled with the agreement to release political prisoners, represents a significant shift in U.S.-Cuba relations. While the long-term impact of this move remains to be seen, it has the potential to reshape diplomatic, economic, and humanitarian aspects of the relationship between these two nations.

As the world watches the transition of power in the United States, the future of this policy change and its implications for both countries hang in the balance. What is clear, however, is that this decision has reignited the debate on the most effective approach to promoting democracy, human rights, and economic prosperity in Cuba, while also serving U.S. interests in the region.