Cuba's Prisoner Release Amid U.S.-Cuba Political Shifts

Cuba has begun releasing prisoners convicted after the 2021 protests following a deal with the U.S., which removed Cuba from the terrorism sponsor list. The move marks a potential thaw in U.S.-Cuba relations. However, released prisoners remain under surveillance, with no full amnesty granted.

In a significant political development, Cuba has started releasing prisoners convicted after the 2021 anti-government protests. This action comes after a recent agreement with the Biden administration, which removed Cuba from a U.S. terrorism sponsor blacklist.

The change in status initiated by President Biden reverses measures taken by his predecessor, Donald Trump, which exacerbated Cuba's economic woes. In response, Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel confirmed the gradual release of 553 prisoners, discussed in recent talks with the Vatican.

While the release has brought relief to families, it is neither a pardon nor an amnesty as released individuals are still under behavioral conditions. The situation marks a potential softening in U.S.-Cuba relations, though future political shifts could alter this fragile detente.

(With inputs from agencies.)