Republican Congresswoman Maria Elvira Salazar has declared that it's time to stop giving "scraps" to the Cuban people, asserting that they deserve freedom and the conditions necessary to thrive.
In a message shared on her social media platforms, Salazar revealed that she, along with other lawmakers, has sent a letter to the administration demanding the revocation of licenses related to businesses allegedly "colluding with the regime."
Salazar emphasized that these permissions benefit individuals who are "feeding off the hunger" of mothers, children, and spouses, suggesting that revoking "all types of licenses" for those connected to the Cuban government could hasten the end of the island's political system.
"The time for FREEDOM has arrived," she proclaimed, highlighting that with President Trump and Secretary Rubio "steadfast and uncompromising," Cuba's freedom is nearer than ever.
The congresswoman acknowledged the emotional toll of being unable to support family members but argued that if the regime is ultimately toppled, those families "will prosper."
Salazar further criticized past efforts, equating them to sending mere "scraps" to the Cuban people, insisting that what they truly deserve is "freedom, freedom, and freedom."
Republican Congressmen Demand Action
This past Wednesday, Republican Congressmen Carlos A. Giménez, Mario Díaz-Balart, and Maria Elvira Salazar submitted a request to the Department of the Treasury and the Department of Commerce. They raised concerns that certain active commercial licenses might be undermining the sanctions imposed by the Cuban Liberty and Democratic Solidarity (LIBERTAD) Act of 1996.
"We are deeply troubled by American companies currently engaging in disruptive commercial activities with entities controlled by the Cuban regime, a state designated as a sponsor of terrorism," the congressmen stated in their letter.
According to them, such operations violate Title I of the LIBERTAD Act, which stipulates that sanctions should remain in place "until tangible progress is made toward democratic governance, the rule of law, and respect for fundamental freedoms" in Cuba.
The signatories noted that licenses granted by the OFAC and the Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) authorize transactions that ultimately benefit the Cuban state apparatus, particularly conglomerates under military control.
"These activities could provide financial resources, material support, or dual-use capabilities that might be diverted for internal repression or intelligence operations," they warned.
The congressmen included a 50-page document with manifests of authorized goods—including luxury cars and high-value items—shipped from Miami to addresses in Plaza de la Revolución, Marianao, and other strategic locations in Havana.
Understanding the Impact of US Licenses on Cuba's Economy
Why is Congresswoman Salazar advocating for the revocation of business licenses in Cuba?
Salazar argues that these licenses benefit individuals who profit from the scarcity affecting Cuban families. She believes revoking these licenses could hasten the end of Cuba's political regime.
What concerns do the congressmen have regarding US companies operating in Cuba?
The congressmen are worried that these companies are engaging in activities that undermine US sanctions by dealing with entities controlled by the Cuban regime, potentially aiding in internal repression.
How do the congressmen believe these licenses affect Cuba's political landscape?
They believe the licenses allow transactions that benefit the state apparatus, especially military-controlled conglomerates, thereby supporting the regime's stability rather than promoting democratic change.