WASHINGTON: The White House has marked Cuban Independence Day with a presidential message reaffirming US support for the Cuban people and renewing criticism of the government in Havana.
The message, issued on May 20, commemorated the anniversary of the Republic of Cuba's establishment in 1902. It was released as part of the White House's wider America 250 commemorations.
In the statement, President Donald Trump said the United States stood with Cubans seeking political freedom and self-governance. He compared Cuba's independence struggle with America's own founding history, saying both reflected a desire for liberty and national self-determination.
The White House also used the message to criticise Cuba's current political system, accusing the government in Havana of restricting political freedoms, suppressing dissent and weakening the country's economy. These accusations reflect Washington's long-standing position toward Cuba's communist government.
The statement further linked Cuba policy to the Trump administration's wider approach toward Latin America. The White House referred to actions taken against Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro and said the administration had moved to cut financial support networks that it says benefit authoritarian governments and criminal organisations in the region.
The message also said new sanctions had been imposed on parts of Cuba's military and intelligence apparatus, as well as individuals or entities accused of providing material or financial support to the Cuban government.
Washington said the measures were intended to increase pressure on Havana and prevent hostile military, intelligence or security activity close to US territory. Cuba has historically rejected US criticism and has blamed American sanctions for worsening economic hardship on the island.
The White House also paid tribute to Cuban-Americans, describing their contributions to American society and highlighting the role of the Cuban diaspora in preserving cultural identity while participating in US civic life.
The message comes as Washington continues to take a tougher line toward governments in the region that it regards as hostile to US interests. It also reflects the administration's broader foreign policy emphasis on sanctions, regional security and support for opposition movements in authoritarian states.
For US-Cuba relations, the statement signals that major policy differences remain unresolved. While Washington says its pressure campaign is aimed at supporting freedom and democracy, Havana and its allies are likely to view the measures as another extension of US sanctions and political interference.
Source: White House presidential message on Cuban Independence Day.
