Donald Trump signs executive order to expand sanctions against Cuba

On Friday, May 1, 2026, U.S. President Donald Trump signed an executive order expanding existing sanctions against the Cuban government. White House officials stated that the measures target specific individuals, organizations, and companies deemed complicit in corruption, human rights violations, or support for Cuba's security apparatus. The specific entities or persons affected by the new order have not yet been publicly identified. Officials cited concerns regarding Cuba's alleged alignment with Iran and militant groups like Hezbollah, as well as the presence of foreign intelligence and military operations near U.S. territory. The U.S. government continues to demand that Cuba transition its economy, provide compensation for assets nationalized under Fidel Castro, and hold free elections. This move follows previous warnings from the Trump administration regarding the stability of the Cuban government. The Cuban authorities have not yet provided a formal response to these specific developments.