US Expands Visa Restrictions on Cubans Linked to Labor Export Program

Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Feb. 25 announced that the United States has expanded its visa restrictions to include exporters of Cuban labor, particularly medical missions abroad. Rubio said in a statement that the restrictions target individuals and their immediate family members believed to be responsible for the labor export programs, which he said “enrich the Cuban regime.” He added that Cuba’s overseas medical missions “deprive ordinary Cubans of the medical care they desperately need in their home country.” Cuba ultimately profits from forced labor, according to Rubio. By sending those workers around the world, Cuba’s health service generates major export earnings and ultimately leaves Cubans at home without care. Such abusive practices, Rubio said, have been well-documented....