The U.S. State Department announced new visa restrictions targeting officials from Cuba, several African nations, and Grenada, along with their families. The move comes in response to what
Washington describes as a “coercive labor export scheme” run by the Cuban government.
At the heart of the issue is Cuba’s long-standing practice of sending doctors and medical workers abroad under state-run programs. While these missions are often presented as humanitarian aid, U.S. officials say the reality is much darker: host countries pay high fees to Cuba for the doctors’ services, but most of that money never reaches the medical professionals themselves. Instead, it goes to the Cuban state—leaving many doctors underpaid and under strict government control.
“The Cuban regime profits while its people suffer,” said Secretary of State Marco Rubio, stressing that the system not only exploits Cuban workers but also deprives Cubans back home of much-needed healthcare.
Washington’s message is clear: countries should pay doctors directly for their work, not funnel money to what it calls “regime slave masters.”
The U.S. says it will continue working with international partners to dismantle these labor practices and hold accountable the officials who enable them. Ultimately, the aim is to back the Cuban people’s push for freedom, dignity, and human rights.
“Democracies must stand together,” the statement concluded, calling on nations worldwide to confront Havana’s abuses and show solidarity with those most affected—the Cuban people themselves. Photo by Krestavilis at en.wikipedia.
