The Cuban presidency announced that the individuals being freed include young people, women and prisoners over 60 years old who are scheduled for early release within the next six months to a year. The announcement comes weeks after the communist Government said it would free 51 prisoners as a sign of “goodwill” toward the Vatican. The Cuban presidency said it was the fifth time since 2011 that it had pardoned prisoners, amounting to more than 11,000 people. The pardons come as Russia announced on Thursday (US time) that it would send a second oil tanker to Cuba. “It seems not far-fetched to think that this is a sign that some of the conversation between both Governments is advancing.

Source: New Zealand Herald April 03, 2026 21:03 UTC