Cuba releases 2,010 prisoners in the context of pressures from the USA

The Cuban government announced the release of 2,010 prisoners, describing this action as a 'humanitarian and sovereign gesture.' Among those released are young people, women, and elderly individuals, but not those convicted of violent crimes. Although it is unclear whether political prisoners were included, the non-profit organization Prisoners Defenders reported the existence of 1,211 political prisoners in Cuba. This is the second release of prisoners this year, after 51 detainees were released last month.

The releases occur against the backdrop of a severe energy crisis, exacerbated by an oil blockade imposed by the Trump administration. Recently, the U.S. allowed a Russian oil tanker to dock in Havana, bringing over 700,000 barrels of oil, providing a temporary lifeline to Cuba. Although Trump stated that the policy towards Cuba has not changed, he expressed a desire to see major changes in Cuban governance. Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized the need for economic and political reforms in Cuba, while Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel warned that any external aggressor would face strong resistance.