Representatives Lee, McGovern, Meeks, and Castro Lead Congressional Letter to President Biden Urging Sanctions Relief for Cuba Amid Humanitarian Crisis

WASHINGTON – U.S. Representatives Barbara Lee (CA-12), Jim McGovern (MA-2), Gregory Meeks (NY-5), and Joaquin Castro (TX-20) led their colleagues in writing a letter to President Joe Biden urging immediate sanctions relief for the Cuban people amid widespread blackouts and an escalating energy crisis, exacerbated by the impact of Hurricane Rafael.

“The situation is not only causing immense suffering for the Cuban people but also poses serious risks to U.S. national security interests,” the lawmakers wrote. “If left unaddressed, the crisis will almost certainly fuel increased migration, strain U.S. border management systems, and fully destabilize the already-strained Caribbean region.”

Since 2022, over 850,000 Cubans have sought refuge in the United States. The ongoing collapse of essential services, particularly electricity, has further exacerbated this exodus.

The lawmakers requested that President Biden remove the state sponsor of terror designation, expedite emergency humanitarian aid and technical assistance, issue safe harbor letters to address overcompliance with sanctions, suspend sanctions impeding aid, and facilitate energy infrastructure repair and modernization.

“Even temporary relief can save lives and permit the Cuban people a chance to insulate themselves and their families from further vulnerability. We urge your administration to act swiftly to implement these measures and mitigate the growing crisis in Cuba while advancing U.S. interests in the region,” concluded the lawmakers.

To read the full letter, click here.