Note: Single-source report; awaiting corroboration.
The U.S. President has issued an executive order expanding sanctions against those responsible for repression in Cuba and posing threats to U.S. national security and foreign policy. This action builds on a previous national emergency declared due to Cuban government policies considered an unusual and extraordinary threat originating largely outside the United States.
Under the order, all property and interests in property within U.S. jurisdiction belonging to certain foreign persons are blocked. These persons include those operating or having operated in the Cuban economy's energy, defense and related materiel, metals and mining, financial services, or security sectors. The order also targets others as determined by the Secretary of the Treasury in consultation with the Secretary of State.
The sanctions apply to individuals and entities owned, controlled, or directed by the Cuban government or those acting on its behalf. Persons materially assisting, sponsoring, or providing financial, material, or technological support to the Cuban government or sanctioned entities are also subject to property blocking measures.
The administration views these policies and practices as harmful to the United States and contrary to the values of free and democratic societies, reinforcing the rationale for expanded sanctions.