Republican Congressman Mario Díaz-Balart has formally requested that the U.S. Department of the Treasury investigate potential violations of sanctions against the Cuban regime by Cuban-American musicians who have performed concerts on the island. In a letter to Bradley T. Smith, the Deputy Secretary of the Office of Foreign Assets Control, the congressman expressed concerns about the apparent collaboration of certain artists with entities controlled by the Cuban government, particularly those listed on the State Department's Cuba Restricted List.
In his letter, Díaz-Balart cited the example of musicians Dany Ome and Kevincito El 13, U.S. residents who held a concert this summer at the PABEXPO venue in Havana, a facility linked to Cuba's military-business complex. According to the letter, the event was attended by state security members and Raúl Rodríguez Castro, the grandson of Raúl Castro.
The congressman pointed out that there is evidence, including images and social media posts, showing these artists participating in similar events across the island, including performances in Ciego de Ávila. He also mentioned that their manager, Magdiel Díaz, resides in the United States. "These public performances undermine the objectives of U.S. sanctions by providing a recurring source of income to the Cuban dictatorship," Díaz-Balart stated, urging the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) to determine whether the travels and financial transactions related to these performances comply with existing regulations.
A staunch advocate of sanctions against the Cuban regime, the congressman also supported measures taken by former President Donald Trump's administration, including placing Cuba on the list of state sponsors of terrorism and expanding restrictions against Cuban military entities.
Current U.S. regulations permit artistic performances in Cuba under certain travel exceptions, but restrict the use of these licenses when activities have a commercial nature or involve companies connected to the Revolutionary Armed Forces or the Ministry of the Interior.
Investigating Sanctions and Cuban-American Musicians
What prompted Congressman Mario Díaz-Balart to request an investigation?
Congressman Díaz-Balart is concerned about potential violations of U.S. sanctions by Cuban-American musicians performing in Cuba, as these performances may provide financial benefits to the Cuban government.
What specific examples did Díaz-Balart mention in his request?
He mentioned musicians Dany Ome and Kevincito El 13, who held a concert at PABEXPO in Havana, an event attended by members of state security and Raúl Castro's grandson.
What is the stance of U.S. regulations on performances in Cuba?
U.S. regulations allow certain artistic performances in Cuba under travel exceptions but restrict licenses for activities with commercial purposes or those involving Cuban military-linked entities.