A diplomatic source expressed concern about the risk of nationals being imprisoned to be used in negotiations with Washington.
14ymedio, Madrid, January 21, 2025 — The US Embassy in Cuba warned via its social media, on Tuesday, that it has received information about Americans being denied entry upon arrival on the island, as well as orders for nationals to “leave the country immediately under threat of detention.”
The diplomatic mission has not provided any examples to illustrate the situation and the alleged reasons, although a source close to the embassy has expressed “concern” about the risk of a repeat of what happened in Venezuela when the Chavista regime “imprisoned American citizens and used them as hostages to negotiate” with Washington.
The embassy points out that it cannot mediate in matters of entry and exit from Cuba, although it can provide consular assistance to US citizens who request it, and for this purpose reiterates its contact methods by phone and through social media.
The message has been classified as “routine” by the consular office, meaning it contains administrative and non-confidential information. It includes a list of rules to follow for those wishing to travel to the island, including obtaining a visa and subsequently checking for prohibited items at Customs, such as electronic cigarettes, satellite phones, and drones, among other devices. It also reminds travelers that the amount of cash that can be brought into Cuba without declaring it is set at $5,000 USD – or the same amount in Cuban pesos.
“Failure to comply with Cuban immigration and customs laws may result in confiscations, severe penalties, or detention,” it emphasizes. It also urges travelers to cooperate fully with any police or immigration checks. “Remain calm and follow all instructions. Be courteous and professional,” it adds.
The message has not been linked to any known prior reports or complaints of Americans being denied entry or expelled from the country, although two shipments of US humanitarian aid recently arrived in eastern Cuba, specifically in Holguín and Santiago de Cuba. The kits contained primarily food, hygiene, and water packages for victims of Hurricane Melissa, which struck the island in November.
According to the parties involved, Caritas Cuba has been in charge of receiving and distributing the aid, although international organizations such as Catholic Relief Services and Caritas Germany have participated in both operations, supporting logistics and financing.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced the shipment of aid, valued at three million dollars, on Tuesday the 13th, while the Cuban government – which said it accepted the donation, as it was funded by the contributing population – criticized the Trump administration for not officially announcing the shipment, which it said it learned about through the Catholic Church.
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