Grenadian Prime Minister Calls for Cuba’s Removal from Terrorism List and End to Economic Blockade

Grenadian Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell has called on the United States to remove Cuba from the list of countries labeled as sponsoring terrorism and to end the economic blockade on the Spanish-speaking nation. Speaking during a news conference at the Maurice Bishop International Airport, Mitchell emphasized that the people of Cuba have endured an unjust economic blockade for six decades, yet they have continued to engage with the world and provide assistance. He urged solidarity with Cuba and advocated for the removal of both the economic blockade and Cuba’s listing as a state that sponsors terrorism.

Cuba’s inclusion on the U.S. list of state sponsors of terrorism has significant implications. Let’s delve into the background and impact of this designation: State Sponsor of Terrorism: • Alongside Iran, Syria, and North Korea, Cuba is currently listed as a “state sponsor of terrorism” by the U.S. Department of State. • This designation subjects Cuba to sanctions that penalize trade and financial transactions involving the country. • The listing has far-reaching effects, including hindering banking operations and limiting Cuba’s access to vital resources. Historical Context: • Cuba was first placed on the terror list in 1982, accusing the Castro government of supporting communist groups in Latin America and Africa. • However, in 2015, the Obama administration removed Cuba from the list as part of efforts to normalize relations between the two countries. • Unfortunately, the Trump administration reinstated Cuba’s status as a state sponsor of terrorism in 2021, imposing additional sanctions.

Impact of the Embargo: • The U.S. embargo against Cuba prevents American businesses and entities from conducting trade with Cuban interests. • It is the most enduring trade embargo in modern history. • The embargo has cost Cuba trillions of dollars over six decades, affecting its overall human development and economic stability. • Most banks refuse to process Cuban payments due to fear of violating U.S. sanctions. Calls for Removal: • Grenada’s Prime Minister Mitchell joins a chorus of voices urging the U.S. to lift the economic blockade and remove Cuba from the terrorism sponsor list. • Critics argue that the designation is “bogus” and does not align with the evidence. • Former intelligence officials emphasize that Cuba does not sponsor terrorism and that the listing perpetuates the rationale for the blockade. The debate over Cuba’s status as a state sponsor of terrorism continues, with significant implications for both Cuba and the international community. The call for solidarity and advocacy remains crucial in addressing this complex issue.