I'm actually not convinced that the one has anything to do with the other. I mean, yes, it's true that a lot of times sanctions mostly just strengthen the regime they're aimed at, and cause a lot of suffering for no reason. But I think it might just be that Biden's doing some performative stuff on his way out and also some prisoners got freed, and it's a happy accident if they can make a deal to make it all happen together.

Texas Sen. Ted Cruz, a Republican, whose father is Cuban, criticized Biden’s actions. “Today’s decision is unacceptable on its merits,” he wrote in a statement. “The terrorism advanced by the Cuban regime has not ceased. I will work with President Trump and my colleagues to immediately reverse and limit the damage from the decision.”