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Cubans React to Trump's First Day of New Travel Ban

Wednesday, June 11, 2025 by Matthew Diaz

The implementation of President Donald Trump's new travel restrictions on the first day has resulted in a wave of uncertainty, now coming to light, among Cubans traveling to and from the island. While the U.S. government claims that the measure addresses "inadequate vetting procedures," many families see it as a barrier that abruptly ends their hopes for reunification.

Kathleen Areas, a Cuban resident of the United States, shared with CBS News Miami that she can no longer bring her mother to live with her in South Florida. "That was my plan, but now with these new restrictions, bringing her to the United States is off the table," she lamented. Her dream of participating in the family reunification program has turned, in her words, into a shattered illusion.

Meanwhile, Alexis Alvarez, another Cuban, returned from the island without any major immigration issues, yet his concerns did not end at the airport. "Today, they didn't ask me anything, not even the usual secondary screening," he said, surprised. However, what worries him most is that, according to his lawyer, he won't be able to bring his wife and child from Santiago de Cuba anytime soon. "It's a shame," he said with resignation.

Although the State Department has clarified that visas already issued will not be revoked, customs officers retain full discretion at the border. In practice, this means that having a valid visa no longer guarantees entry into the country.

Naray Llany, a Haitian citizen, recounted being questioned about the purpose and duration of his trip, with agents verifying if his visa, issued three years ago, remained valid under the new parameters. Unlike Cuba or Venezuela, Haiti faces a total ban, while the other two are under partial restrictions.

Heartbreaking testimonies come from those without visas, witnessing the last doors closing. "My family didn't have a visa and now they can't get one," whispered a Cuban woman who preferred anonymity while boarding her flight to Havana. Another Cuban traveler noted that her relatives on the island have lost all hope. "They don't have it, and now they won't get it," she remarked.

Earlier reports indicated that flights from Cuba, Haiti, and other Caribbean regions landed without incident. However, the atmosphere at Miami airport was far from relieved. "Just because of one man's whim, everything has been turned upside down," declared Magda Moreno, a Cuban-American citizen, to the Miami Herald. Some travelers reported normal entries, but with the bitter feeling that this might be their last time.

According to figures from the American Immigration Council, the updated travel ban could impact up to 34,000 immigrant visas and over 125,000 nonimmigrant visas, leaving thousands of Cubans caught between borders and family reunification dreams frozen. While exceptions exist for permanent residents, diplomats, and refugees, experts warn that scrutiny will be more intense for citizens of countries like Cuba, which, according to the official proclamation, lack reliable identity verification mechanisms or cooperation with the U.S.

The measure revives the specter of Trump's first-term restrictive policies, remembered by many as a period of closed doors for legal migration.

Impacts of the New Travel Ban on Cuban Citizens

What are the main reasons behind the new travel restrictions?

The U.S. government cites "inadequate vetting procedures" as the primary reason for implementing the new travel restrictions.

How do these restrictions affect Cuban families?

The restrictions have created significant barriers for Cuban families, particularly impacting their ability to reunite in the United States.

Are there exceptions to the travel ban for certain individuals?

Yes, exceptions are made for permanent residents, diplomats, and refugees, although increased scrutiny is expected for citizens from certain countries, including Cuba.

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