Kathmandu— Marco Rubio, the top diplomat for the United States, has announced sanctions against five Cuban companies and eight individuals accused of helping Cuba procure military equipment. The sanctions were announced on Thursday as part of President Donald Trump’s broader campaign to exert pressure on the Cuban government, which he characterizes as a threat to US national security.

Sanctioned Entities

Among the businesses targeted are Tecnoimport, Union de Industria Militar (UIM), and EMI Yuri Gagarin. The US State Department accuses these entities of importing military equipment from Russia and China on behalf of Cuba’s armed forces, manufacturing weapons systems, and maintaining Cuban military aircraft.

Individuals Targeted

The sanctions also hit some of Cuba's top military leaders, including Defence Minister Alvaro Lopez Miera and Chief of the General Staff Roberto Legra Sotolongo. These individuals are accused of aiding in the procurement and maintenance of military equipment.

Broader Context

The sanctions are part of a trend of increasing pressure on Cuba, which has been locked in conflict with the US over political and economic ideologies for decades. Trump's administration has tightened restrictions since his return to office in 2025 as part of a “maximum pressure” campaign.

(With inputs from Al Jazeera)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.