The United States has removed Cuba from a list of countries that are “not cooperating fully” in the fight against terrorism. The decision was made due to the resumption of law enforcement cooperation between the two countries, with the State Department deeming the previous designation as no longer appropriate. This move by the Biden administration represents a step towards improved relations between the U.S. and Cuba, although many restrictions put in place by the Trump administration remain in effect.
Despite being removed from the cooperation against terrorism list, Cuba still remains on the State Sponsors of Terrorism list, a separate designation made by former President Donald Trump just before leaving office. This designation has had a significant impact on Cuba, contributing to an economic crisis on the island and shortages of food, fuel, and medicine. Some experts believe that the Biden administration’s decision to remove Cuba from the cooperation list could be a signal that a reevaluation of Cuba’s status as a state sponsor of terrorism may be on the horizon.
William LeoGrande, a professor at American University, pointed out that the state sponsor designation is determined by separate criteria established by Congress. Any future review of Cuba’s status would need to be based on these criteria. Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez welcomed the decision by the Biden administration to remove Cuba from the list of countries not fully cooperating in the fight against terrorism, but stated that it did not go far enough. Rodriguez called for an end to the political manipulation of the issue and the unjust inclusion of Cuba on the list of countries sponsoring terrorism.
The move to remove Cuba from the list of countries not fully cooperating in the fight against terrorism is seen as a positive step towards improving relations between the U.S. and Cuba. It is hoped that this decision will lead to further cooperation between the two countries on issues of mutual interest, such as counterterrorism efforts. The Biden administration’s decision to reassess Cuba’s designation as a state sponsor of terrorism may indicate a willingness to engage in a more constructive dialogue with the Cuban government and work towards easing tensions.
While this decision by the Biden administration represents a positive development in the relationship between the U.S. and Cuba, many challenges remain. The economic crisis in Cuba, exacerbated by the state sponsor of terrorism designation, continues to impact the Cuban people. It is imperative that both countries work together to address the root causes of these issues and find mutually beneficial solutions. Overall, the decision to remove Cuba from the list of countries not fully cooperating in the fight against terrorism is a step in the right direction and a sign of potential progress in U.S.-Cuba relations.
