Cuba pardons 2,000 prisoners

Families gathered outside prisons across the country to reunite with loved ones who were granted amnesty for good behavior and health reasons.

While the government frame the releases as an act of mercy, analysts suggest it is a strategic attempt to ease internal tensions and meet international demands.

Cuba continues to grapple with a severe energy crisis, though a Russian oil tanker was recently allowed to reach the island.

The Trump administration has maintained that the release of political prisoners remains a core requirement for any normalization of ties.