Washington sanctions Cuba's military ties with Russia and China

The US has imposed sanctions against five Cuban entities and eight individuals involved in arms procurement and Havana’s cooperation with the armed forces of China and Russia.

This was reported by Bloomberg, citing the US administration.

The restrictions target structures that, according to Washington, help the Cuban military acquire weapons and equipment. The sanctions list also includes Cuban representatives responsible for military contacts with foreign states.

Among those sanctioned are Cuba’s military attachés in China and Russia. US authorities believe they facilitate the development of military ties between these countries and Cuba.

Washington disclosed all the names and the list of organizations as part of another round of its sanctions campaign against the Cuban government. The US stated that the new measures are intended to limit Havana’s ability to procure arms and receive support from foreign military partners.

The property and financial assets in the United States or under the control of US citizens and companies belonging to the sanctioned individuals and organizations are subject to freezing. US persons are prohibited from conducting transactions with them without special permission.

The restrictions were imposed under an executive order signed by President Donald Trump on May 1, 2026. The document allows for sanctions against participants in the defense, financial, extractive, and law enforcement sectors of the Cuban economy, as well as foreign companies and banks that facilitate their operations.

The Trump administration accuses Cuba of expanding military and intelligence cooperation with China and Russia. Havana and Beijing have previously rejected US statements about the presence of Chinese military infrastructure on the island, calling them a pretext for increasing pressure.

This latest move is another step in the tightening of US policy toward Cuba. In recent months, Washington has already imposed restrictions on Cuban officials, state-owned enterprises, and companies linked to the military-run conglomerate GAESA.