On September 3, 2009, the US Department of the Treasury lifted travel restrictions and restrictions on money transfers between Cuban-Americans and their families in Cuba. The department also authorized US telecommunications companies work within Cuba to facilitate communication between families split between the two countries. The changes did not lift the general economic embargo that has been in place against Cuba since 1962. Travel restrictions to Cuba remained in effect for Americans of non-Cuban descent, and Americans continued to be barred from sending gifts to high-ranking Cuban politicians.

Cuban flag

Learn more about US-Cuba relations from the Council of Foreign Relations.