By John Q. Hosedrinker 
President Biden notified Congress of his intention to remove Cuba from the list of state sponsors of terrorism, a decision facilitated by the Catholic Church and intended to secure the release of numerous political prisoners. This action, coupled with eased economic pressure on Cuba, reverses aspects of the Trump administration’s stricter policies. The Biden administration cited a lack of credible evidence of Cuban support for international terrorism in recent months. However, the incoming Trump administration may overturn this decision given its previously stated positions on Cuba and the expected appointments of Secretary of State-designate Marco Rubio and Mauricio Claver-Carone.
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Biden’s decision to lift Cuba’s designation as a state sponsor of terrorism is undeniably a significant move, particularly as it’s intrinsically linked to a deal securing the release of numerous political prisoners. This action, facilitated by the Catholic Church, aims to free “many dozens” of individuals unjustly detained on the island. The timing, however, is undeniably controversial, occurring just weeks before the end of Biden’s term and potentially jeopardizing the long-term impact of the decision.
The lifting of this designation, a relic of the Cold War, has been argued as long overdue by many. The decades-long animosity between the two countries, fueled by sanctions and political tensions, has arguably outlived its relevance in the contemporary global landscape. Questions arise regarding why this action wasn’t taken sooner, fueling skepticism about the efficacy of the current approach.
Concerns surrounding the potential reversal of this decision by a future administration, particularly one with a different political ideology, are valid. The transient nature of the change, with a readily apparent possibility of Trump reinstating the designation, casts a shadow over its lasting impact and effectiveness. The whole enterprise could be interpreted as mere political theater with little long-term consequences.
However, despite the transient nature of the decision and the cynicism surrounding it, the release of dozens of political prisoners is undeniably a positive outcome. This should be the focus. The symbolism of the action, while potentially fleeting, does hold weight for those directly affected – the unjustly imprisoned individuals finally gaining their freedom. It’s a tangible benefit that outweighs the potential for short-lived policy changes.
The influence of political figures like Marco Rubio, a Cuban-American senator known for his strong stance against the Cuban government, is another significant factor contributing to the complexities of the situation. His influence and those who share similar views within the Cuban-American community have historically played a substantial role in shaping US policy towards Cuba.
This move also raises broader questions about the effectiveness of the US embargo against Cuba. As long as the Castro regime, or a similar government remains in power, the entrenched nature of the conflict makes complete normalization highly unlikely, irrespective of this specific policy change. The inherent difficulties of significantly altering the relationship between the two countries given the historical baggage and political realities are apparent.
The timing of the move, coming so close to a change in presidential administration, raises a plethora of additional questions. The potential for the new administration to immediately reverse the decision, transforming it into a short-lived symbolic gesture, is very real. This makes many question the true impact and motivations behind the decision.
Yet, it is argued that any action to alleviate the plight of political prisoners is inherently positive. While the potential for short-term gains to be quickly reversed exists, the immediate impact on the lives of the prisoners remains significant. This aspect, regardless of any political calculations, justifies the action.
The deeper complexities of the situation encompass the economic and political realities facing both Cuba and the United States. The unresolved issue of reparations owed to US citizens whose property was seized after the revolution presents a substantial obstacle to complete normalization. This financial hurdle remains a key stumbling block in fostering more amicable relations.
Ultimately, the decision to lift Cuba’s designation as a state sponsor of terrorism, while wrapped in political complexities and questionable timing, directly benefits dozens of unjustly imprisoned individuals. While the long-term implications remain uncertain and potentially subject to reversal, the immediate positive impact on the lives of these prisoners is undeniable. The broader picture is more nuanced, with enduring historical tensions and economic hurdles presenting ongoing challenges to achieving substantial, lasting improvements in US-Cuba relations.