White House Increases Pressure on Cuba With Surveillance Flights, CIA Visit and Energy Embargo

The White House is seeking to increase pressure on Cuba through a combination of stepped-up surveillance flights, a visit by the CIA director and an energy embargo. These measures follow a pattern of actions that mirror steps previously taken toward Venezuela.

Officials are also considering a possible indictment of former Cuban leader Raúl Castro as part of the effort. The surveillance flights have increased in frequency in recent weeks. The CIA director traveled to the region as officials weigh further options.

An energy embargo forms another element of the current approach.

The current measures draw on tactics used in dealings with Venezuela in past years. That earlier effort combined diplomatic, economic and legal steps aimed at altering government behavior in the country. Officials have not detailed how closely the Cuba effort will follow the Venezuela example. The possible indictment of Raúl Castro would represent a significant legal step if pursued.

Stepped-up surveillance flights provide intelligence gathering over Cuban territory and surrounding waters. The CIA director's visit included meetings focused on regional developments. The energy embargo restricts fuel shipments and related transactions with the island nation.

These actions occur against a backdrop of long-standing tensions between the two countries. Cuba has faced periodic economic challenges, including energy shortages. The White House has not released a full public statement outlining the complete strategy.