The United States on Thursday imposed sanctions on 11 Cuban entities linked to the country’s nickel reserves and military enterprises, accusing them of operating within a system that benefits the elite at the expense of ordinary Cubans.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the measures targeted four state-run enterprises involved in nickel reserves, four military companies engaged in research and development, including weapons systems, and three military officials.
The sanctions are part of Washington’s broader pressure on the Cuban government, which the United States has described as a national security threat.
Cuba’s Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez has previously said U.S. sanctions were “causing deaths” as the island’s economy struggles with severe shortages.
Cuba has consistently rejected Washington’s assessment, maintaining that its government does not pose a threat to the United States.
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