Cuba Releases 2,000 Prisoners Amid U.S. Sanctions and Energy Crisis
Cuba has released over 2,000 prisoners in response to economic pressures from U.S. sanctions and severe fuel shortages. The Cuban government granted pardons to 2,010 inmates, citing good behavior, time served, and health conditions. The release includes young people, women, older adults, foreign nationals, and Cuban citizens living abroad. However, prisoners convicted of serious crimes were excluded. This marks the second prisoner release this year, coinciding with Holy Week, a customary period for such actions. The move comes as Cuba faces a deepening economic and energy crisis, exacerbated by U.S. efforts to cut off the island's access to foreign oil, leading to fuel shortages and unrest.