One year after the July 11, 2021 protests in Cuba, the United States recognizes the determination and courage of the Cuban people as they continue to fight for respect for human rights and persevere through repression during a historic year.

The Department of State has taken steps to impose visa restrictions on 28 Cuban officials pursuant to Presidential Proclamation 5377.

The Department of State has taken steps to impose visa restrictions on five Cuban officials pursuant to Presidential Proclamation 5377, which suspends nonimmigrant entry into the United States of officers and employees of the Cuban government. These five officials are connected to unfair trials and unjust sentencing and imprisonment of peaceful July 11, 2021, protesters.  …

The Spokesperson for the Department of State, Ned Price stated on May 16 that “…we will reinstate the Cuban Family Reunification Parole Program (CFRP) and further increase consular services and visa processing, making it possible for more Cubans to reunite with their families in the United States through regular immigration channels.” Please note, however, that …

The U.S. Embassy in Georgetown, Guyana is a regional immigrant visa processing center for applicants from Guyana, Suriname, French Guiana, and Cuba. We heard the calls to increase immigrant visa processing in Guyana due to extended visa wait times as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.  In recent months, the U.S. Embassy in Guyana has …

Q. Is the U.S. Embassy in Havana open for visa processing? In May 2022, the U.S. Embassy in Havana will resume limited immigrant visa processing by prioritizing applicants in the IR-5 (parent of U.S. citizen) category. This change is part of the broader expansion of the Embassy’s functions to facilitate diplomatic and civil society engagement …

Today, we recognize the strength and diversity of the Cuban people and their many contributions to the world. We celebrate the strong bonds between our two peoples, as well as the diverse backgrounds and ideas of Cuban artists, entrepreneurs, religious leaders, human rights defenders and advocates for equality, journalists, and environmentalists– just a few of the many people in Cuba with a strong voice and …

Starting on July 11, tens of thousands of Cubans in dozens of cities and towns throughout their country took to the streets to peacefully demand respect for their fundamental freedoms and a better future. In response, the Cuban regime violently repressed the protests, arresting hundreds of demonstrators simply for exercising their human rights of freedom …

Beginning on July 11, tens of thousands of Cubans across the island took to the streets to  peacefully demand their fundamental freedoms and a better future.  The Cuban government responded with violence. Today, democracies around the world are  coming together  to support the Cuban people, calling on the Cuban government to respect Cubans’ demands for universal human …

On July 22, the United States imposed sanctions on the leader of Cuba’s military and on the Cuban Ministry of the Interior’s Special National Brigade in response to Cuban security forces’ violent suppression of peaceful protesters. Today, the United States is announcing additional sanctions in connection with the Cuban regime’s repression of the peaceful protests …

In recent weeks, the United States imposed sanctions on Cuban military and security leaders and units in response to the Cuban regime’s violent suppression of peaceful protesters on and after July 11.  Today, we are enacting additional sanctions in connection with this repression.  We take this action pursuant to Executive Order 13818, which builds upon …

The United States has imposed additional sanctions on Cuban military and security leaders in response to the Cuban regime’s continued violent suppression of freedoms of expression and peaceful assembly in the days and weeks following the protests on and after July 11. The United States designated Andres Laureano Gonzalez Brito, Chief of the Central Army …

Starting on July 11, tens of thousands of Cubans in dozens of cities and towns throughout their country took to the streets to peacefully demand respect for their human rights and fundamental freedoms.  In response, Cuban security forces violently repressed the protests, arresting hundreds of demonstrators simply for exercising their rights of freedom of expression …

The United States strongly condemns the Cuban regime’s decision to deny permission for peaceful protests to take place on November 15. By refusing to allow these demonstrations, the Cuban regime clearly demonstrates that it is unwilling to honor or uphold the human rights and fundamental freedoms of Cubans. The Cuban regime’s denial comes after it announced …

It has been one year since nearly 300 artists and activists gathered and demonstrated for freedom of expression at the gates of the Ministry of Culture in Havana.  Inspired by the peaceful and unprecedented protests of the San Isidro Movement, the artists called for artistic and personal freedoms in Cuba, and for the Cuban government …

PRESS STATEMENT NED PRICE, DEPARTMENT SPOKESPERSON NOVEMBER 16, 2021 The United States commends the courage and will of the Cuban people who stood in the face of government repression to make their voices heard yesterday.  The Cuban regime again blocked the voices of the Cuban people rather than listen to them, forgoing opportunities for dialogue and positive change for …

In 2018, President Donald Trump withdrew the United States from the United Nations Human Rights Council due to its well-established pattern of anti-Israel bias and membership rules that allow the election of the world’s worst human rights abusers to seats on the Council.  Prior to making this decision, and after our exit, the United States …

Today, the Department of State is adding American International Services (AIS) to the Cuba Restricted List.  AIS is a financial institution controlled by the Cuban military that processes remittances sent to the Cuban people.  The Cuban military also uses AIS, its parent company FINCIMEX, and other entities to charge fees and manipulate the remittance and …

Dear José Daniel, The time has come for us to continue our conversation. The only thing which has alleviated my outrage at your unjust detention and mistreatment is the happiness of your family when finally reunited with you. It was a great relief but only a small step toward your final exoneration. What you suffered …

Moderator:  Greetings to everyone from the U.S. Department of State’s Media Hub of the Americas in Miami, Florida.  I would like to welcome our participants who have dialed in from the United States and across the region.  This is an on-the-record briefing with Ambassador Michael Kozak, Acting Assistant Secretary of the Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs, and Lea …

Yesterday, the Department of State notified Congress that Iran, North Korea, Syria, Venezuela, and Cuba were certified under Section 40A(a) of the Arms Export Control Act as “not cooperating fully” with U.S. counterterrorism efforts in 2019.  This is the first year that Cuba has been certified as not fully cooperating since 2015.  This certification prohibits …

U.S Department of State Press Statement Morgan Ortagus, Department Spokesperson March 24, 2020 The Department of State is rising to meet the historic challenge posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, every day, all over the world. We have no higher duty than to protect American citizens, and have launched an unprecedented global effort to bring home …

PRESS STATEMENT MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE MARCH 20, 2020 I congratulate Luis Almagro on his re-election as Secretary General of the Organization of American States (OAS). Under his principled leadership, which the member-states have now renewed, the United States will continue to work with our partners at the OAS to promote and defend …

Remarks to women civil society leaders in Cuba Chargé d’ Affaires Mara Tekach Chief of Mission Residence March 9, 2020 Welcome to the United States Embassy’s commemoration of women civil society leaders in Cuba, heroines who personify the democratic values critical to a vibrant social order. As a matter of policy, the United States firmly …

Chargé d’ Affaires Mara Tekach U.S. Embassy Havana International Women’s day March 6, 2020, Chief of Mission Residence Welcome to the United States Embassy commemoration of women of courage in which we honor Cuba’s Ladies in White. You epitomize what it means to be valiant in the face of overwhelming repression. We are all Ladies …

U.S Department of State Media Note Office of the Spokesperson March 3, 2020 2020 International Women of Courage Award Recipients Announced Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo to Honor Awardees on March 4, 2020 with Special Remarks by First Lady of the United States Melania Trump On Wednesday, March 4, Secretary of State Michael R. …

An Open Letter to the Foreign Minister of the Republic of Cuba His Excellency Bruno Eduardo Rodriguez Parrilla Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Cuba Havana Minister Rodriguez: Cuban human rights defender Jose Daniel Ferrer has endured more than 100 days of unjust imprisonment and repeatedly has been dragged, chained, beaten, and burned …

President Donald J. Trump’s State of the Union Address to the Congress of the United States The White House Office of the Press Secretary Washington, D.C. February 4, 2020 [Excerpts related to foreign policy] *             *             *             * One of the single biggest promises I made to the American people was to replace the disastrous …

Delivering Life-Saving Humanitarian Relief to Venezuelans in Need U.S. Department of State Fact Sheet Bureau of Population, Refugees, and Migration February 4, 2020 Since 2017, the United States has provided over $656 million in aid to the Venezuela crisis, of which nearly $473 million is humanitarian assistance for the close to 4.8 million Venezuelans who …

U.S Department of State Press Statement Michael R. Pompeo, Secretary of State January 10, 2020 United States Further Restricts Air Travel to Cuba  Today, at my request, the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) suspended until further notice all public charter flights between the United States and Cuban destinations other than Havana’s José Martí International Airport. …

UNITED STATES OF AMERICA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY WASHINGTON, D.C. Served: January 10, 2020 NOTICE By this Notice, the U.S. Department of Transportation (the Department) (1) suspends the authority granted to all public charter operators that authorizes public charter flights between any point in the United States and any point in Cuba, …

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE Office of the Spokesperson For Immediate Release Statement by Secretary MICHAEL R. POMPEO January 5, 2020 The United States Congratulates Interim President Juan Guaido on His Re-Election as President of the National Assembly On behalf of the United States, I congratulate Juan Guaido on his re-election as president of the Venezuelan National …

IMMEDIATE RELEASE Statement by the Department of Defense JAN. 2, 2020 At the direction of the President, the U.S. military has taken decisive defensive action to protect U.S. personnel abroad by killing Qasem Soleimani, the head of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps-Quds Force, a U.S.-designated Foreign Terrorist Organization. General Soleimani was actively developing plans to …

Public Designation of Leopoldo Cintra Frias Due to Involvement in Gross Violations of Human Rights Press Statement Michael R. Pompeo, Secretary Of State JANUARY 2, 2020 The Department is publicly designating Leopoldo Cintra Frias, Minister of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Cuba (MINFAR), under Section 7031(c) of the FY 2019 Department of State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, due …

Statement From Assistant to the Secretary of Defense Jonathan Hoffman DEC. 29, 2019 In response to repeated Kata’ib Hizbollah (KH) attacks on Iraqi bases that host Operation Inherent Resolve (OIR) coalition forces, U.S. forces have conducted precision defensive strikes against five KH facilities in Iraq and Syria that will degrade KH’s ability to conduct future …

U.S Department of state Press Statement Michael R. Pompeo, Secretary of State December 20, 2019 United States Takes Action Against Violators of Religious Freedom The protection of religious freedom is a top Trump Administration foreign policy priority. Persecution and discrimination on the basis of religion or belief exists in every region of the world. The …

A specter is haunting the Western Hemisphere – the specter of democracy. Editorial by Michael Kozak, Acting Assistant Secretary for Western Hemisphere Affairs, U.S. Department of State Sometimes-violent protests have recently filled the streets of cities across the Americas.  Some critics once again seek to cast the United States as a convenient foil, using an outdated Cold …

The United States Takes Action Against the Movement of Venezuelan Oil to Cuba PRESS STATEMENT MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE DECEMBER 3, 2019 On December 3, the United States identified six PDVSA-owned vessels, pursuant to E.O. 13884 or 13850, being used by the former Maduro regime to ship oil to Cuba.  In addition, the Esperanza was …

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE Office of the Spokesperson For Immediate Release  STATEMENT BY SECRETARY MICHAEL R. POMPEO November 22, 2019 Cuban Government Allegations of Political Interference Against U.S. Chargé d’Affaires The U.S. government strongly condemns the Castro regime’s accusations against our Chargé d’Affaires at the U.S. Embassy in Havana, Mara Tekach.  The regime has launched …

Public Designation of Julio Cesar Gandarilla Bermejo under Section 7031(c) of the FY 2019 Department of State, Foreign Operations List 11/16/2019 05:45 PM EST Michael R. Pompeo, Secretary of State The Department is publicly designating Julio Cesar Gandarilla Bermejo, Minister of Cuba’s Ministry of the Interior (MININT), under Section 7031(c) of the FY 2019 Department …

State Department Updates the Cuba Restricted List PRESS STATEMENT MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE NOVEMBER 15, 2019 Today, I am announcing an update to the Cuba Restricted List to add five sub-entities owned by the Cuban military to the list of entities with which direct financial transactions are generally prohibited. On November 16th, Cuba commemorates Havana’s 500th anniversary. Havana was once …

U.S Department of State Press Statement Michael R. Pompeo, Secretary of State November 5, 2019 The United States Takes Action Against Former Maduro Regime Officials and Strengthens International Efforts On November 5, the United States identified five members of the former Maduro regime and took action against them under the authority of Executive Order (E.O.) …

At the request of the Secretary of State, the U.S. Department of Transportation suspended until further notice scheduled air service between the United States and Cuban international airports other than Havana’s Jose Marti International Airport to prevent the Cuban regime from profiting from U.S. air travel. U.S. air carriers will have 45 days to discontinue …

The UN High Commissioner report on Human Rights issued this past July documented egregious human rights abuses of the former Maduro regime in Venezuela. It is sadly no surprise that Maduro shamelessly sought a seat on the UN Human Rights Council in an effort to block any limit to his repressive control of the Venezuelan …

Registration for the Diversity Visa Program (DV-2021) has already begun. Be on the lookout for frauds that include payment requests. Don’t be a victim of scam or deception! The DV program does not notify you by email, nor does it request payment prior to the consular interview. Follow the official instructions here: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/immigrate/diversity-visa-program-entry/diversity-visa-instructions.html .

The United States and the Holy See: Partners in Advancing Religious Freedom, Combatting Human Trafficking, and Promoting Human Rights Fact Sheet Office of the Spokesperson October 3, 2019 Secretary Pompeo traveled to Vatican City from October 2-3, where he met with Pope Francis, Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin, and Secretary for Relations with …

Visa Actions Against Cuban Officials Exploiting Cuban Doctors 09/30/2019 05:27 PM EDT The State Department is imposing visa restrictions under the Immigration and Nationality Act Section 212(a)(3)(C) on Cuban officials responsible for certain exploitative and coercive labor practices as part of Cuba’s overseas medical missions program. Profiting from the work of the Cuban doctors has …

THE UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE Friday, September 27, 2019 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE www.justice.gov/news Cuban Citizen Sentenced for Making False Statements on an Application for Lawful Permanent Residence and for Theft of Government Funds WASHINGTON – A Cuban citizen and high-ranking official in the Cuban government living in Miami, Florida, was sentenced to six months in …

U.S Department of State Press Statement Morgan Ortagus, Department Spokesperson September 24, 2019 United States Takes Action Against Entities and Vessels Operating in Venezuela’s Oil Sector On September 24, the United States designated four companies that operate in Venezuela’s oil sector as sanctioned, and identified as blocked property four vessels associated with this activity. This action …

U.S Department of the Treasury Press Releases September 24, 2019 Treasury Further Targets Entities and Vessels Moving Venezuelan Oil to Cuba Washington – Today, the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) designated four entities that operate in the oil sector of the Venezuelan economy pursuant to Executive Order (E.O.) 13850. …

The Department of State today notified the Cuban Ministry of Foreign Affairs that the United States requires the imminent departure of two members of Cuba’s Permanent Mission to the United Nations for abusing their privileges of residence. This is due to their attempts to conduct influence operations against the United States. In addition to the …

U.S DEPARTMENT OF STATE Office of the Spokesperson For Immediate Release STATEMENT BY SECRETARY MICHAEL R. POMPEO September 15, 2019 International Day of Democracy On this International Day of Democracy, we reflect on our nation’s unwavering commitment to the unalienable rights that create the foundation of our democracy. In the United States, those rights are …

U.S. Department of State Office of the Spokesperson For Immediate Release  Statement by Morgan Ortagus, Spokesperson September 10, 2019  Religious Freedom in Cuba This past weekend, many in Cuba, and many Cuban Americans, joyfully celebrated the Feast of the Virgin of Charity of Cobre (La Virgen de la Caridad del Cobre), the patron saint of Cuba. …

United States Restricts Remittances and “U-Turn” Transactions to Cuba MEDIA NOTE OFFICE OF THE SPOKESPERSON SEPTEMBER 6, 2019 Today, the Department of the Treasury took action to prevent U.S. remittances to Cuba from enriching Cuban regime insiders and their families and to restrict Cuba’s access to the U.S. financial system. Going forward, U.S. persons are no longer allowed to …

U.S. Department of the Treasury Office of Public Affairs Treasury Issues Changes to Strengthen Cuba Sanctions Rules Press Release: September 6, 2019 Contact: Treasury Public Affairs, (202) 622-2960 WASHINGTON – Today, the Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) amended the Cuban Assets Control Regulations (CACR) to further implement President Trump’s June 2017 …

U.S. Department of State Office of the Spokesperson For Immediate Release  Statement by Secretary Pompeo August 21, 2019 On the Prosecution of Cuban Journalist Roberto Quinones The U.S. government strongly condemns the prosecution of Roberto Quinones. We call upon the Cuban regime to immediately release Mr. Quinones and to cease their abuse and mistreatment. On April …

The State Department has updated the Cuba Restricted List to add four sub-entities owned by the Cuban military.  The changes take effect today, July 26, as Cuba celebrates more than 60 years since the start of the Cuban Revolution.  Sixty years after Castro promised to improve the lives of the Cuban people, the revolution continues to …

U.S Department of the Treasury Press Releases July 3, 2019 Treasury Targets Cuban Support for the Illegitimate Venezuelan Regime Treasury further removes sanctions on company that has ended its involvement in Venezuelan oil shipments to Cuba Washington – Today, the Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) designated Cubametales, the Cuban state-run oil …

The United States Curtails Cuban Support for Illegitimate Former Maduro Regime MEDIA NOTE OFFICE OF THE SPOKESPERSON JULY 3, 2019 Today, the United States removed sanctions on oil shipping company PB Tankers in response to actions it has taken to ensure that its vessels no longer were complicit in supporting the former Maduro regime. Additionally, …

Assistant Secretary for Western Hemisphere Affairs Kimberly Breier at the Plenary Session of the 49th OAS General Assembly KIMBERLY BREIER, ASSISTANT SECRETARY BUREAU OF WESTERN HEMISPHERE AFFAIRS MEDELLIN, COLOMBIA JUNE 27, 2019 Thank you very much. I’d like to thank President Duque, Secretary General Almagro, and your respective teams for organizing this 49th General Assembly …

Maduro Dictatorship Tortures Opponent to Death PRESS STATEMENT MORGAN ORTAGUS, DEPARTMENT SPOKESPERSON WASHINGTON, DC JUNE 30, 2019 The United States condemns the killing and torture of Capitan de Corbeta Rafael Acosta Arévalo, a Venezuelan Naval Officer, who died while in the custody of Maduro’s thugs and their Cuban advisers. We express deepest condolences to his …

The United States Sanctions Nicolas Maduro Guerra MEDIA NOTE OFFICE OF THE SPOKESPERSON JUNE 28, 2019 Today, the United States imposed sanctions against Nicolas Maduro’s son, Nicolas Ernesto Maduro Guerra (Maduro Guerra), for his role as an official in the illegitimate Maduro regime pursuant to E.O. 13692. Maduro Guerra is a member of the illegitimate …

U.S. Department of State Office of the Spokesperson For Immediate Release June 12, 2019 The below is attributable to Spokesperson Morgan Ortagus:‎ Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo met today with Canadian Foreign Minister Chrystia Freeland in Washington, D.C.  The Secretary and Foreign Minister reiterated their mutual commitment to restoring democracy in Venezuela and Nicaragua.  …

U.S. Department of State Office of the Spokesperson For Immediate Release Media Note June 4, 2019 United States Restricts Travel & Vessels to Cuba Today, the United States took strong action to prevent U.S. travel to Cuba from enriching the Cuban military, security, and intelligence services by announcing new restrictions on authorized travel and vessels …

U.S. Department of State Office of the Spokesperson For Immediate Release Statement by Morgan Ortagus, Spokesperson May 27, 2019 The United States condemns the conditions placed on the movement and activities of Cuban human rights activist and political prisoner Dr. Eduardo Cardet. Cuban regime authorities not only unjustly sentenced Dr. Cardet to three years in …

World Press Freedom Day Press Statement Michael R. Pompeo Secretary of State Washington, DC May 3, 2019 On World Press Freedom Day, we reaffirm our commitment to protecting safety and freedom for members of the press. A free and independent media is indispensable to a vibrant, functioning democracy. Despite some progress, journalists around the world …

OAS Addresses the Destabilizing Role of Russia and Cuba in Venezuela Remarks by Alexis F. Ludwig Deputy U.S. Permanent Representative May 2, 2019 Good morning, and thank you to the panelists for sharing this important information with us today. The United States is committed to advancing democratic governance and strengthening our work with partners in …

Secretary Pompeo’s Call with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov U.S. Department of State Office of the Spokesperson For Immediate Release Readout May 1, 2019 The below is attributable to Spokesperson Morgan Ortagus:‎ Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo called Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov today, May 1, to discuss the situation in Venezuela. The Secretary …

Treasury Statement on Restoring Venezuelan Democracy April 30, 2019 Washington – Today, the Department of the Treasury issued a statement in support of efforts underway in Venezuela to restore democracy. This statement can be attributed to a Treasury spokesperson: “The United States stands with the Venezuelan people and interim President Juan Guaido in opposition to …

Department of State Updates the Cuba Restricted List Media Note Office of the Spokesperson Washington, DC April 24, 2019 The Department of State has updated the Cuba Restricted List with five additional sub-entities owned by the Cuban military. The changes take effect today. The Department will continue to update the list as needed to ensure …

AS DELIVERED APRIL 17, 2019 Ambassador Bolton remarks to the Bay of Pigs Veterans Association – Brigade 2506. Thank you, Colonel [Johnny] Lopez de la Cruz, for your kind introduction, and for the invitation to address the Bay of Pigs Veterans Association this afternoon. I am delighted to be here in Miami among such brave …

Senior State Department Official U.S. Policy Towards Cuba Background Press Briefing April 17, 2019 Moderator:  Good morning, and greetings to everyone from the U.S. Department of State Media Hub of the Americas in Miami, Florida.  I am Lydia Barraza, the Director of the Miami Media Hub and the Spanish-language spokesperson.  I would like to welcome …

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY Treasury Targets Finances of Nicaraguan President Daniel Ortega’s Regime WASHINGTON – Today, the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) designated Laureano Ortega Murillo, the son of Nicaraguan President Daniel Ortega and Vice President Rosario Murillo, as well as Nicaraguan bank Banco Corporativo SA (BanCorp). Today’s …

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY Treasury Sanctions Central Bank of Venezuela and Director of the Central Bank of Venezuela Washington – Today, the Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) designated Banco Central de Venezuela, or the Central Bank of Venezuela, pursuant to E.O. 13850, as amended, for operating in the financial …

Additional Financial Sanctions Against Nicaragua Media Note Office of the Spokesperson Washington, DC April 17, 2019 Today, the United States has affirmed its commitment to use all economic and diplomatic tools to promote accountability for the Ortega regime and to support the Nicaraguan people in their quest for freedom. The United States has sanctioned Laureano …

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE Office of the Spokesperson For Immediate Release  MEDIA NOTE April 17, 2019 The United States Sanctions the Central Bank of Venezuela Today, the United States has taken further action to halt the former Maduro regime’s theft of Venezuela’s assets and destruction of the economy. The United States has sanctioned the Central …

THE WHITE HOUSE Office of the Press Secretary FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE April 17, 2019 President Donald J. Trump Is Taking A Stand For Democracy and Human Rights In the Western Hemisphere “When Venezuela is free, and Cuba is free, and Nicaragua is free, this will become the first free hemisphere in all of human history” …

Ministerial for the “U.S.-Caribbean Resilience Partnership” Fact Sheet Office of the Spokesperson Washington, DC April 13, 2019 On April 12, Deputy Secretary of State John J. Sullivan led an interagency team of United States senior officials and experts to U.S. Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) headquarters in Miami, Florida, where he hosted ministers and disaster management officials …

Joint Statement: Ministerial of the U.S.-Caribbean Resilience Partnership Media Note Office of the Spokesperson Washington, DC April 13, 2019 The text of the following joint statement was issued by the governments of the United States, Antigua and Barbuda, Aruba, The Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Dominica, the Dominican Republic, Grenada, Guyana, Haiti, Jamaica, St. Kitts and Nevis, …

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE Office of the Spokesperson For Immediate Release  ON-THE-RECORD-BRIEFING April 17, 2019 Assistant Secretary for Western Hemisphere Affairs Kimberly Breier April 17, 2019 Press Briefing Room Washington, D.C. MS ORTAGUS:  Good morning, everybody. ASSISTANT SECRETARY BREIER:  Good morning, everyone. MS ORTAGUS:  Let’s start with Matt. QUESTION:  Thank you.  Ms. Secretary, I – even before the announcement …

Treasury Increases Pressure on Cuba to End Support to Maduro by Imposing Further Oil Sector Sanctions U.S Department of The Treasury Press Releases April 12, 2019 Washington – Today, the Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) designated four companies that operate in the oil sector of the Venezuelan economy, pursuant to E.O. …

Nicolás Maduro: Corruption and Chaos in Venezuela U.S. Department of State Office of the Spokesperson For Immediate Release April 15, 2019 Fact Sheet “Maduro usurped power; he’s not the duly elected president. Juan Guaidó is the person that the Venezuelan people chose. America and now 54 other nations simply have ratified that, have said, ‘Yep, …

Remarks to the Press Remarks Michael R. Pompeo Secretary of State On Plane ert Santiago, Chile April 11, 2019 SECRETARY POMPEO: It’s going to be a great trip, something we’ve been working on for quite a while. It came together six, eight weeks ago. The administration has spent a lot of time on South America. …

United States Provides Additional Humanitarian Aid to Venezuelans Who Have Fled Their Country   Media Note Office of the Spokesperson Washington, DC April 10, 2019 Today, Vice President Pence announced that the United States is providing nearly $61 million in additional humanitarian assistance to support the regional response for the 3.4 million Venezuelans who have …

The United States Sanctions Companies Enabling Shipment of Venezuelan Oil to Cuba U.S. Department of State Office of the Spokesperson Media Note Washington, DC April 5, 2019 Today, the United States sanctioned two companies, Ballito Bay Shipping Inc. and ProPer in Management Inc., operating in Venezuela’s oil sector and the vessel Despina Andrianna used to …

U.S. Department of State Office of the Spokesperson For Immediate Release Statement by Robert Palladino, Deputy Spokesperson March 22, 2019 Concerns for Detained U.S. Persons in Venezuela The United States is gravely concerned about the welfare and safety of all U.S. persons detained in Venezuela, and by reports of Venezuelan prison officials preventing attorneys and …

Remarks to the Press Remarks Michael R. Pompeo Secretary of State Press Briefing Room Washington, DC March 11, 2019 SECRETARY POMPEO: Good afternoon, everyone. Thanks for being here. I want to make some brief remarks about the situation, an update on the situation in Venezuela, an update on U.S. activity related to Venezuela. Over the past …

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE Office of the Spokesperson For Immediate Release MEDIA NOTE March 11, 2019 State Department Updates the Cuba Restricted List The State Department has made several updates to the Cuba Restricted List, including adding five sub-entities owned by the Cuban military and one explanatory footnote.  The Department also simplified some entries by …

Observance of International Women’s Day U.S. Department of State Office of the Spokesperson For Immediate Release Statement by Secretary Pompeo March 8, 2019 The United States is proud to observe International Women’s Day, March 8.  We extend our gratitude to the diverse women and girls around the globe who have made vast contributions in lifting up …

Remarks by Vice President Pence at The Latino Coalition Legislative Summit Issued on: March 6, 2019 Park Hyatt Hotel Washington, D.C. 12:25 P.M. EST THE VICE PRESIDENT: Well, thank you, Hector. Thank you for that kind introduction. And join me in thanking Chairman Barreto — (applause) — for so many years of leadership in business …

UNITED STATES AGENCY FOR INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT Office of Press Relations For Immediate Release February 8, 2019 FACT SHEET The United States Pre-Positions First Phase of Humanitarian Assistance to Provide Aid to Venezuelans – Cucuta, Colombia At the request of Interim President Juan Guaidó, the United States is immediately pre-positioning emergency supplies in Colombia to provide …

The United States Supports the Venezuelan People With Humanitarian Assistance Fact Sheet Office of the Spokesperson Washington, DC February 7, 2019 Recognizing the regional Humanitarian Crisis: Former President Nicolas Maduro’s systematic economic mismanagement, corruption, and violent oppression have caused severe shortages of food and medicine and needless human suffering, resulting in an exodus of millions …

Remarks at the Organization of American States Remarks Michael R. Pompeo Secretary of State Organization of American States Washington, DC January 24, 2019 SECRETARY POMPEO: Thank you very much. The United States is a friend of Venezuela and of the Venezuelan people. We have watched Venezuelans suffer for far too long. We know what they know, …

United States Is Ready To Provide Urgent Humanitarian Aid to the People of Venezuela Media Note Office of the Spokesperson Washington, DC January 24, 2019 Today, Secretary of State Pompeo announced that the United States is ready to provide more than $20 million in initial humanitarian assistance to the people of Venezuela as they struggle …

U.S. Embassy Havana Media Note Havana, Cuba December 12, 2018 Please note that U.S. Embassy Havana remains open. American citizens have access to the full range of consular services at U.S. Embassy Havana. As has been in effect for some time now, the Embassy is not issuing nonimmigrant visas, except for life-threatening emergencies.  Cuban citizens …

The White House Office of the Press Secretary For Immediate Release November 30, 2018 PRESIDENT DONALD J. TRUMP IS PROMOTING REGIONAL PROSPERITY AND SECURITY “My Administration is dedicated to securing human rights in Cuba and Venezuela, and strengthening our cultural and philosophical ties with all our Latin American partners.” – President Donald J. Trump PARTNERING …

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE Office of the Spokesperson For Immediate Release  STATEMENT BY SECRETARY POMPEO November 23, 2018 The International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women Violence against women is a global issue that affects millions of people annually. Every woman and girl deserves a life free from violence. The Unites States is committed …

List of Restricted Entities and Subentities Associated With Cuba as of November 15, 2018 BUREAU OF ECONOMIC AND BUSINESS AFFAIRS November 15, 2018 Below is the U.S. Department of State’s list of entities and subentities under the control of, or acting for or on behalf of, the Cuban military, intelligence, or security services or personnel …

Assistant to the President and National Security Advisor Ambassador John R. Bolton Delivers Remarks on the Trump Administration’s Policies in Latin America at Miami Dade College Miami, FL Thursday, November 1, 2018 Remarks as delivered Thank you very much. Thank you very much. Well, it’s a great pleasure, a great honor to be here today …

International Day To End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists Press Statement Heather Nauert Department Spokesperson Washington, DC November 2, 2018 Today, we commemorate the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists. We renew our steadfast commitment to promoting a free and independent press and advocating for accountability against those who commit violence or …

Remarks at a UN General Assembly Meeting on Cuba Ambassador Nikki Haley U.S. Permanent Representative to the United Nations U.S. Mission to the United Nations New York City November 1, 2018 AS DELIVERED Remarks Before the Vote on Cuba in the UN General Assembly Thank you, Madam President. Thank you, members of the General Assembly. …

Remarks at a U.S. Event Launching the “Jailed for What?” Campaign Highlighting Cuba’s Political Prisoners Ambassador Kelley Currie U.S. Representative for Economic and Social Affairs U.S. Mission to the United Nations New York City October 16, 2018 AS DELIVERED On behalf of the U.S. Mission to the United Nations, I welcome you to the UN. …

The registration period for the 2020 Diversity Immigrant Visa Program (DV-2020) opened at noon, Eastern Daylight Time (EDT) (GMT-4), on Wednesday, October 3, 2018, and will close at noon, Eastern Standard Time (EST) (GMT-5), on Tuesday, November 6, 2018. Program entries may only be sent online through http://www.dvlottery.state.gov . Before submitting an entry it is advisable …

September 26, 2018 – The Public Affairs section of the U.S. Embassy Havana hosted a reception to celebrate the award ceremony for the photo contest “Sueños”. The theme of this contest was inspired on First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt’s words: The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams. The reception was …

As of August 23, 2018 the U.S. Embassy in Havana resumed offering the full range of American Citizen Services including passport renewals, first time passport applications, notary services, authentication services, Consular Reports of Birth Abroad (CRBA), and emergency assistance to U.S. citizens in Cuba.  

Western Hemisphere: Remarks at 48th Annual Washington Conference on the Americas Remarks John J. Sullivan Acting Secretary of State Washington, DC May 8, 2018 MR PALMIERI: So it’s my honor – it’s my honor today to introduce our next speaker, Deputy Secretary of State John Sullivan. When we speak about our ambitious engagement in the Western …

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE Office of the Spokesperson Statement from the spokesperson Heather Nauert May 3, 2018 World day of freedom of press 2018 Today is the 25th anniversary of World Press Freedom Day. Journalists shine a light on many issues around the world, keeping citizens informed, prompting robust debate and discussion – we certainly …

Remarks by Vice President Pence at First Plenary Session of the Summit of the Americas Issued on: April 15, 2018 Lima, Peru THE VICE PRESIDENT:  Secretary General Almagro, President Vizcarra, Presidents, Prime Ministers, and leaders from across the Western Hemisphere — it is my great honor to join you today, as Vice President of …

The State Department has received numerous, credible reports that the Cuban government prevented, and continues to prevent, members of independent civil society from traveling to Peru to participate in the Summit of the Americas. Cuban authorities prevented these individuals’ travel through arbitrary stops at the airport, short-term detentions, and visits to individuals’ homes to warn …

As directed in the June 16, 2017 National Security Presidential Memorandum “Strengthening the Policy of the United States Toward Cuba,” the Department of State is convening a Cuba Internet Task Force composed of U.S. government and non-governmental representatives to promote the free and unregulated flow of information in Cuba.

The U.S. Embassy in Havana is providing the following clarification on which consular and immigration services will be performed in Havana and others that are being provided in Bogotá, Colombia and Mexico City, Mexico due to a drawdown in staffing at U.S. Embassy Havana effective September 29, 2017.  The most accurate and updated information can …

Secretary Tillerson (Aug. 15): “The release of the 2016 International Religious Freedom Report details the status of religious freedom in 199 countries and territories, and provides insights as to significant and growing challenges.”

UPDATED JULY 25, 2017 Frequently Asked Questions on President Trump’s Cuba Announcement Department of the Treasury Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) How will OFAC implement the changes to the Cuba sanctions program announced by the President on June 16, 2017? Are the changes effective immediately? OFAC will implement the Treasury-specific changes via amendments to …

June 16, 2017 Department of the Treasury Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) Frequently Asked Questions on President Trump’s Cuba Announcement 1. How will OFAC implement the changes to the Cuba sanctions program announced by the President on June 16, 2017? Are the changes effective immediately? OFAC will implement the Treasury-specific changes via amendments to its Cuban …

The 100,000 Strong in the Americas Innovation Fund is a public-private collaboration of the White House, U.S. Department of State, Partners of the Americas, and NAFSA: Association of International Educators that was announced by Secretary of State John Kerry in January 2014. Learn more at www.100kstrongamericas.org Competition #16 is made possible through generous contributions from NAFSA: Association of International Educators and …