The government of Cuba has revealed plans to release 2,010 prisoners, describing the move as a “humanitarian gesture” as pressure from the United States continues to intensify.
The announcement was made on Saturday, April 3, through the Cuban Embassy in Washington via social media, with officials linking the decision to the observance of Holy Week rather than directly addressing ongoing tensions between the two nations.
Authorities stated that those eligible for release include foreign nationals, Cubans living abroad, as well as young people, women, and elderly inmates. The selection process, according to officials, was based on factors such as good behaviour, time already served, the nature of offences, and inmates’ health conditions.
However, no specific timeline has been provided for the release, and the government has not disclosed details about the crimes committed by those affected. It also remains unclear whether individuals detained during protests are among those to be freed.
While Cuban authorities maintain that there are no political prisoners in the country, rights group Prisoners Defendedclaims that more than 1,200 individuals are currently being held on political grounds.
The development comes amid increased economic pressure from Washington under the administration of Donald Trump, including measures that have effectively restricted oil supplies to the island, contributing to fuel shortages and broader economic challenges.
The United States has continued to push for political and economic reforms in Cuba, though the full scope of its demands has not been publicly detailed. Officials have also indicated that any easing of sanctions would depend on significant policy changes by the Cuban government.
Marco Rubio has previously emphasized that Cuba must undertake major reforms to qualify for sanctions relief, linking the country’s economic difficulties to its political system.
