President Obama has unveiled a surprise shift in US policy towards Cuba after 18 months of secret negotiations moderated by Pope Francis gave rise to a prisoner swap, and an agreement to discuss a restoration of diplomatic ties.
He's easing sanctions, allowing Americans to do business with Cuba and visit the island, and acknowledging that US sanctions against the Castro regime haven't worked.
Our Washington Correspondent Simon Marks reports.
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Republicans have acted swiftly to criticize the President’s decision to try and re-open diplomatic relations with Cuba.
Senator Marco Rubio of Florida says the White House moves will only strengthen the Castro regime’s hold on power.
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Senator Marco Rubio, a Republican from Florida, says the White House is betraying the Cuban people by striking a deal with their Communist rulers.
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