The Biden administration has notified Congress of its intent to lift the US designation of Cuba as a state sponsor of terrorism.
According to reports by the Associated Press, the White House says the move is part of a deal facilitated by the Catholic Church to free political prisoners on the island.
Senior officials said dozens of political prisoners and others considered to be unjustly detained would be released by the end of Biden’s administration on January 20.
The US would also ease some economic pressure on Cuba, as well as a 2017 memorandum issued by then-President Donald Trump toughening the country’s posture towards Cuba.
The determination by the outgoing one-term Democrat is likely to be reversed as early as next week after Trump takes office.
There was no immediate comment from Trump’s transition team.
Photo credit: New York Times
