Several prominent Cuban-American lawmakers have vehemently criticized President Joe Biden's decision to remove Cuba from the list of state sponsors of terrorism, labeling it a "betrayal" of U.S. interests and a setback for the Cuban people's quest for freedom.
Mario Díaz-Balart, María Elvira Salazar, and Carlos Giménez, speaking in a video shared on Facebook by journalist Mario Vallejo, argued that this decision economically empowers the Castro regime, further enabling its oppressive machinery and prolonging the suffering of the Cuban populace. The lawmakers highlighted that this move contradicts the promises previously made by the Biden administration.
The Economic Impact of Biden's Decision
"This president has done everything possible to aid the tyranny in Havana, as well as those in Managua and Caracas," stated Díaz-Balart. Salazar emphasized that the decision "provides economic oxygen to the repressive apparatus of the Castro regime, allowing it to continue suppressing the people."
Additionally, Salazar questioned the role of Secretary of State Antony Blinken, pointing out his lack of resignation or opposition to the directive from the White House to delist Cuba. "Blinken assured me in the Foreign Relations Committee that they were not considering removing Cuba from the list, but later changed his stance when instructed by the White House," she remarked.
Concerns Over U.S. Foreign Policy
Giménez expressed his apprehension about the repercussions of this decision on U.S. foreign policy. "Biden is dismissing the dreams of freedom for Cubans and undermining this country's interests. This is a final act showcasing the failure of his administration," he declared.
With Donald Trump's imminent return to the presidency, Díaz-Balart expressed confidence that this decision would be swiftly overturned. "President Trump, the greatest ally for freedom's cause worldwide, will crush this measure and restore sanctions on the Castro regime," he asserted, noting that this "celebration" for the regime would be short-lived.
Cuban Regime's Response and International Reactions
Biden's decision to remove Cuba from the list of state sponsors of terrorism has sparked significant controversy in Congress and among Cuban-American communities, who view this action as a blow to efforts aimed at pressuring Havana's regime towards meaningful political change.
The Cuban government responded on Tuesday, declaring the U.S. decision to be "limited but correct." An official statement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs described the move as "limited," yet acknowledged it as a step in the right direction.
In conjunction with this development, the Cuban regime announced the release of 553 sanctioned individuals as part of an agreement reached following negotiations with the United States and mediation by the Vatican.
FAQs on Biden's Decision and Its Implications
Why did Biden decide to remove Cuba from the list of state sponsors of terrorism?
The Biden administration decided to remove Cuba from the list as part of an effort to re-evaluate U.S.-Cuba relations and potentially open pathways for diplomatic and economic engagement.
How have Cuban-American lawmakers reacted to this decision?
Cuban-American lawmakers have strongly condemned the decision, viewing it as a betrayal of U.S. interests and a reinforcement of the oppressive Cuban regime.
What are the potential implications for U.S. foreign policy?
The decision may affect U.S. foreign policy by altering its stance on Cuba, which could have broader implications for relations with other countries in the region and its overall diplomatic strategy.
How has the Cuban government responded to the U.S. decision?
The Cuban government has described the decision as "limited but correct," viewing it as a positive, albeit small, step towards improving relations with the United States.