(CMR) A promise made by US President-elect Joe Biden to renew relations with Cuba could be set back after the communist-governed island was re-designated as a “state sponsor of terrorism” by the Trump administration on Monday.
Secretary of State Mike Pompeo announced the step, giving reasons such as Cuba's continued harboring of US fugitives, refusal to extradite Colombian guerrilla commanders and support for Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro.
The sanctions are expected to significantly affect Cuba's economy as most travel from the US to Cuba will be barred. The sending of remittances to Cuba from relatives in the United States is also expected to be affected.
Cuba was removed from a blacklist by former President Barack Obama to form better relations with the country. However, the present administration has now reversed some of the sanctions that were eased.
Cuba's designation as a state sponsored by terrorism is one of several last-minute foreign policy moves before Biden takes office on January 20.
Cuba, North Korea, Syria, and Iran are the only foreign nations deemed state sponsors of terrorism by the US.
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