In a significant decision, U.S. President Joe Biden announced the removal of Cuba from the United States’ State Sponsors of Terrorism (SSOT) list. This move, coming during the final days of his presidency, reverses the controversial designation made by former President Donald Trump in 2021. Biden cited the need to facilitate humanitarian measures, including the release of detainees in Cuba, as a key motivation for the policy shift.
In his official communication, Biden stated, “I transmit herewith a report to the Congress with respect to the proposed rescission of Cuba’s designation as a state sponsor of terrorism.”
What the SSOT Designation Means
The SSOT list, maintained by the U.S. State Department, includes countries accused of “repeatedly providing support for acts of international terrorism.” However, critics argue that the designation is often wielded as a geopolitical tool against nations refusing to align with U.S. foreign policy. Countries such as North Korea, Syria, and Iran remain on the list, while controversial allies like Saudi Arabia are absent.
The inclusion of Cuba on this list subjected the island nation to harsh sanctions, restricting trade and financial transactions. It also deterred international banks and trading partners, exacerbating the nation’s economic struggles and creating severe humanitarian challenges.
A Broad Coalition Demands Change
The decision follows mounting pressure from a wide range of U.S. elected officials, labor unions, and international leaders. In December, a coalition of U.S. lawmakers—including New York State Senators Jabari Brisport and Julia Salazar, labor leaders from organizations such as the United Auto Workers and SEIU Local 1000, and members of city councils—urged Biden to act.
Globally, 35 former heads of state, including Brazil’s Dilma Rousseff, Argentina’s Cristina Fernández de Kirchner, and Bolivia’s Evo Morales, signed an open letter calling for Cuba’s removal from the list.
A Victory for Social Movements
Socialist and grassroots organizations have celebrated the decision as a victory for Cuba and global solidarity. The People’s Forum, a key advocate for material aid to Cuba, hailed the decision, stating, “This milestone is the result of relentless efforts by activists and organizations over the past several years who worked tirelessly to challenge the baseless designation.”
They emphasized that while this removal marks a significant victory, the broader fight to lift the U.S. blockade on Cuba must continue.
The Party for Socialism and Liberation echoed these sentiments, calling the removal a victory for global public opinion. They highlighted the urgency of preventing a potential reimposition of the designation, especially under a future administration likely to adopt anti-Cuba policies.
Looking Ahead
This decision is seen as a step toward easing the long-standing U.S. blockade that has strangled Cuba’s economy for decades. While celebrations are underway, advocates for Cuban sovereignty stress that the fight against U.S. aggression is far from over.
As Biden exits the White House, the spotlight turns to his successor’s approach to U.S.-Cuba relations, with many fearing a rollback of this progress.
Online Peoples News will continue to track developments on this historic decision and its implications for global solidarity movements.