Fri Jan 17 07:41:06 UTC 2025: ## Cuba Frees 127 Political Prisoners in Deal with Biden Administration

**Havana, Cuba –** In a landmark deal brokered by the outgoing Biden administration, Cuba has released 127 prisoners, including prominent opposition leader José Daniel Ferrer. The release, which began on January 15th, is part of an agreement that saw the U.S. remove Cuba from its list of state sponsors of terrorism.

Ferrer, a 54-year-old activist who spent three and a half years in prison, was greeted by emotional family members upon his release. He immediately urged Cubans to resist the government, describing it as increasingly weak and fearful. The deal also involves the release of 553 prisoners, many arrested for participating in anti-government protests in July 2021, sparked by economic hardship.

While the agreement paves the way for increased U.S. investment in Cuba, its future remains uncertain. Incoming President Donald Trump’s pick for Secretary of State, Senator Marco Rubio, has voiced strong opposition to the deal, suggesting that the Trump administration may reverse Biden’s decision to remove Cuba from the terrorism list.

The staggered release of prisoners has caused anxiety for families awaiting news of loved ones. Analysts speculate that Cuba may be delaying further releases, using the remaining prisoners as leverage with the incoming Trump administration. This strategy, however, is considered risky, as the Trump administration may react negatively to such tactics.

Ferrer’s release is viewed as significant, given his long history of activism and previous imprisonment. His release, along with that of other political prisoners, marks a notable development in US-Cuba relations, although the long-term implications remain unclear.

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