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The Office of Western Hemisphere Affairs of the United States State Department reiterated this Wednesday its condemnation of the Cuban government, which it described as "tyrannical", and stated that it is determined to put an end to the oppression of the people of the island and political prisoners.
The statement was made in light of the situation of dissident artist Luis Manuel Otero Alcántara, who was sentenced in a trial deemed fraudulent.
Washington also denounced that the opposition member is being denied medical care while his health condition continues to worsen in prison.
In its statement, the U.S. government emphasized that the systematic repression in Havana against critical voices reflects the authoritarian nature of the regime and reiterated its support for the activists who defend human rights within the island.
The U.S. administration has maintained a hardline stance toward the Cuban government regarding human rights, while sectors of the international community are calling for increased pressure on the island to ensure the release of political prisoners and respect for fundamental freedoms.
Cuba closed the month of August 2025 with 1,185 political and conscience prisoners, the highest number recorded to date, according to the organization Prisoners Defenders, which deemed the figure a new monthly record on the island.
In its latest report, the entity based in Madrid documented the admission of 13 new political prisoners in August alone, while there were four releases, three due to the completion of their sentences and one due to forced expatriation, that of activist Aymara Nieto Muñoz, who was released on the condition of leaving the country.
Nieto was transferred directly from prison to the airport, unable to say goodbye to her eldest daughter, and deported to the Dominican Republic along with her husband and younger daughters.
From July 1, 2021, to the end of August 2025, a total of 1,882 individuals classified as political prisoners in Cuba have been reported, nearly all of whom are citizens without political affiliation who have been imprisoned after peacefully protesting against the regime.
Among them is Luis Manuel Otero, who was arrested on July 11, 2021, while attempting to join the protests that rocked the island.
Four years into his imprisonment, the artist and political prisoner is experiencing a serious state of health. He suffers from skin herpes, intestinal parasites, and chikungunya, which has caused significant physical deterioration and constant fatigue.
Despite the pain, close friends assure that he maintains a positive spirit and a strong mind, although they acknowledge that the situation is concerning and requires attention.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Political and Human Rights Situation in Cuba
Why does the United States classify the Cuban regime as "tyrannical"?
The United States labels the Cuban regime as "tyrannical" due to the systematic repression of critical voices and the violation of human rights on the island. The U.S. administration has denounced specific cases, such as that of dissident artist Luis Manuel Otero Alcántara, who was arrested and sentenced in a trial deemed fraudulent, as well as the denial of medical care while his health deteriorates in prison. Washington has also highlighted the record number of political prisoners in Cuba, reaching 1,185 by the end of August 2025, reflecting the authoritarian nature of the Cuban government.
What is the current situation of political prisoners in Cuba?
The situation of political prisoners in Cuba is alarming, with a record of 1,185 political prisoners and prisoners of conscience reported as of August 2025. According to the organization Prisoners Defenders, numerous human rights violations have been documented, including denial of medical care, inhumane detention conditions, and irregular trials. Furthermore, there are 472 prisoners with severe medical conditions and 41 with serious mental disorders without adequate treatment. These figures reflect a troubling increase in state repression against dissent in Cuba.
Who is Luis Manuel Otero Alcántara and why is he in prison?
Luis Manuel Otero Alcántara is a Cuban artist and dissident, founder of the San Isidro Movement, imprisoned for his activism in defense of freedom of expression in Cuba. He was arrested on July 11, 2021, during the anti-government protests and sentenced to five years in prison in 2022 for contempt of patriotic symbols, disobedience, and public disorder. His detention has been deemed arbitrary by the UN, and various human rights organizations have called for his immediate release due to his deteriorating health and the precarious conditions of his imprisonment.
What measures has the United States taken regarding human rights violations in Cuba?
The United States has maintained a critical stance and imposed sanctions against the Cuban regime for its human rights violations. The U.S. administration has blocked visas and properties of Cuban officials, including President Miguel Díaz-Canel and his family members. Furthermore, it has publicly condemned arbitrary detentions and mistreatment of opponents such as José Daniel Ferrer and Félix Navarro, reaffirming its commitment to the cause of freedom in Cuba. Washington has also urged the international community to pressure the Cuban regime to ensure respect for human rights.
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