Cuba Frees 2,010 Prisoners Amid Energy Crisis and U.S. Pressure

Cuba officially announced the pardon of 2,010 prisoners, citing good conduct and the upcoming Holy Week celebrations.

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The release includes women, youth, seniors over 60, and several foreigners, though those convicted of violent crimes remain excluded.

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The island is currently suffering from a severe fuel shortage, leading to multiple nationwide blackouts and suspended school classes.

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The U.S. administration has effectively throttled oil shipments to Cuba via military action and tariff threats against regional partners.

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President Trump has demanded that Cuba dismantle its centralized economy to avoid total collapse, famously stating a desire to "take Cuba."

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In a surprise move this week, Trump allowed a Russian oil tanker to enter Cuban waters for humanitarian reasons, stating, "They have to survive."

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Despite the tanker allowance, the White House clarified there has been no official change to the strict U.S. economic embargo.

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The release follows a pattern of "prisoner-for-sanctions" deals, though Havana’s official statement made no direct mention of the U.S.

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