Cuba hit by more US sanctions despite pro-market economic overhaul

The United States and Cuba are countries that have not been friendly for a very long time.

Recently, the United States added new punishments, called sanctions, against Cuba.

These sanctions stop some Cuban people and companies from doing business with others.

The U.S. says Cuba spies on America and helps countries like Russia, China, and Iran.

At the same time, Cuba is making changes to let private businesses do more, like sell fuel and medicine or run tours for tourists.

Cuba's leader, Miguel Diaz-Canel, says these changes are for Cuba, not to make the U.S. happy.

He promised that Cuba will not sell off its hospitals, schools, science, or culture to private owners.

He also said Cuba will not become a place where only rich companies win, which he called 'predatory capitalism.'

Some people are worried about these changes, but Cuba's leader says the most important public services will stay public.