Can Obama Unilaterally End the Cuba Embargo?

Jose Gabilondo
Professor of Law, Florida International University

Especially when imposed by a hegemon on a small and vulnerable country, an embargo is an act of political hatred for that country and its people. Its goal is to isolate these targets from the support of others, so an embargo also visits collateral damage on third parties.

President Obama has said that he wants to end the Cuban embargo. Soon he must make two decisions that will suggest how serious he is.

This month he must decide whether the Trading With the Enemy Act still authorizes sanctions against the island. TWEA requires an annual determination by the president that a national emergency exists with respect to Cuba, one that justifies sanctions.
Every U.S. President since Jimmy Carter (including Obama) has so determined.


The embargo was enacted because Cuba was exporting radical socialism to other countries. Obama has opened the door.

Does this mean, a case of Romeo y Julieta robusto #2, will be affordable to the poor?