As friends, U.S. can push more change in Cuba

In another step toward normalizing relations with Cuba, President Obama announced Tuesday that he plans to take the country off the list of states sponsoring terrorism.

It’s about time. One of the more ridiculous episodes in our country’s history finally is coming to an end. This step should have happened decades ago.

Kevin Bastian

I hope this is the real deal. I’d love to step back in time and visit Cuba.

Jay Sample

So all you have to do to be taken off the terrorism list is stay clean for six months and promise not to do it again? That’s what President Obama mentioned in his announcement.

Mike Palestis

Human rights in Cuba are under the scrutiny of Human Rights Watch. The group accuses the Cuban government of systematic human rights abuses, including arbitrary imprisonment and unfair trials.

Cuba limits freedom of expression, association, assembly and the press. Concerns also have been expressed about the operation of due process. Does Obama care? Apparently not!

Jim Antista

All the United States has done with its isolationist policy is perpetuate the current regime. The opening of relations with Cuba likely will cause more changes in five years than 50 years of the isolationist policy. This is the right move.

Terry Mayer

Meanwhile, Cuban people and dissenters are persecuted and jailed.

Alexander Ruiz

I do not support Cuba harboring cop killers or other violent criminals.

However, without diplomatic relations, how do people suggest we remedy that? The years of sanctions have accomplished squat.

Robin O’Bryan