US sanctions Cuban military officials, firms over Russian, Chinese arms

The United States has imposed sanctions on five Cuban companies and eight individuals, including Defence Minister Alvaro Lopez Miera, for allegedly helping Cuba procure military equipment from Russia and China. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced the measures on Thursday, citing Cuba's role as a staging ground for hostile powers near US shores. The move escalates the Trump administration's 'maximum pressure' campaign against Cuba, following similar sanctions last month and threats of military action.