Cuba Releases 51 Prisoners in Surprise Move

Cuba Releases 51 Prisoners in Surprise Move

The Cuban government has announced the release of 51 prisoners as a gesture of goodwill, influenced by recent discussions with the Vatican. This move precedes President Miguel Diaz-Canel's upcoming press conference addressing national and international issues. Since 2010, over 19,905 inmates have been pardoned, including prominent dissident José Daniel Ferrer, now residing in the United States. The release aligns with the U.S. considering the removal of Cuba's state sponsor of terrorism designation. Despite this progress, over 1,214 political prisoners remain in Cuba as of February 2026.