Cuba to release over 2,000 prisoners as U.S. talks develop

The government of Cuba plans to release more than 2,000 prisoners as a humanitarian gesture as the Trump administration ramps up its efforts to pressure Havana into capitulating.

"As part of the process for granting prison benefits established by law and in accordance with Article 90, Section II, of the Constitution of the Republic, it was decided to release 2,010 inmates through a pardon approved by the Government of Cuba," the Cuban government posted on X.

Havana characterized the development as part of a regular practice amid Holy Week.

"This is the second release of prisoners this year, taking place in the context of the religious celebrations of Holy Week, which is a customary practice in our criminal justice system and part of the trajectory," the government posted.

President Donald Trump, for his part, has hinted at what he called a "friendly takeover" of Cuba and repeatedly suggested that the communist regime's days are numbered. He has not, however, significantly elaborated on plans to end the regime.

Ben Whedon is the Chief Political Correspondent at Just the News. Follow him on X.