Ankara: The US announced new sanctions targeting Cuba's ruling elite, a state-owned bank, and four entities connected to the country's energy, metals, and mining sectors.

According to Anadolu Agency, the US Department of State stated that these measures are part of the Trump administration's broader strategy to curb the Cuban regime's activities, which Washington claims threaten US national security and stability in the Western Hemisphere.

The sanctions include Fidel Ernesto Castro Calis, grandson of former Cuban President Raul Castro, who was targeted under an executive order signed by US President Donald Trump. Additionally, Banco Exterior de Cuba faces sanctions due to its role in Cuba's financial services sector.

Four other entities involved in Cuba's natural resources and energy industries, including nickel and cobalt operations and petroleum-related procurement and commercial activities, were also sanctioned. As a result, any assets belonging to the designated individuals and entities within US jurisdiction will be blocked, and US persons are prohibited from conducting transactions with the sanctioned parties unless authorized by the US Treasury Department.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized that the Cuban government poses a significant threat. He stated, 'The Communist Cuban regime continues to pose a deep, multifaceted threat to U.S. national security and our hemisphere's stability.' Rubio accused the Castro family and regime-linked officials of controlling the island's economy, noting that the measures specifically target networks supporting Cuba's financial, mining, and energy sectors.