The United States has expanded its sanctions against Cuba, imposing new restrictions on the country's financial transactions, including its private sector.

Operativ Media reports, citing a statement from the US Department of the Treasury.

Under the new rules, any financial transactions with entities linked to Cuban security structures and the "Grupo de Administración Empresarial S. A." (GAESA) conglomerate are prohibited.

In addition, the Treasury Department has revoked a general license in effect since 2024 that allowed US banks to process certain dollar payments related to Cuba. This authorization applied to cases where the source and destination of the payment were outside the US and did not involve the interests of US citizens.

A decision allowing US banks to open and maintain accounts for independent private entrepreneurs who are Cuban citizens has also been revoked. Access for the Cuban private sector to the US banking system was authorized in 2024 under President Joe Biden to support the private sector.

The US Treasury Department has also imposed restrictions on certain travel categories for US citizens that were permitted during Barack Obama's presidency. Participation in cultural exchange programs, as well as conferences and professional meetings, will now require authorization from US authorities.

According to US government data, Cuba's imports from the country have recently increased significantly. In July, Cuba reportedly purchased $149 million worth of goods from the US, marking the highest monthly figure since 1992.

Between January and July of the current year, the volume of imports exceeded $674 million. This figure is nearly equal to the total imports recorded during 2025.

US President Donald Trump has extended the existing trade embargo against Cuba until September 14, 2027.

Cuban authorities state that Washington's pressure has caused fuel shortages, power outages, and a deepening economic crisis. Meanwhile, Trump has previously made repeated threats to "take control" of the island.