A new National Security Presidential Memorandum (NSPM-5) dropped on June 30—and while it’s aimed squarely at the Cuban regime, it also has ripple effects for U.S. national security professionals, especially those with a clearance. So what’s in the memo, and why should you care?
The Memo in a Nutshell
NSPM-5 revives and updates a 2017 directive that tightens U.S. policy toward Cuba. The goal? Undermine the Cuban government’s military and intelligence apparatus while supporting the Cuban people with tools for democracy, free enterprise, and internet freedom.
Key provisions include:
- A strict ban on financial dealings with entities linked to the Cuban military (many of which are controlled by GAESA).
- Reinforced travel and tourism restrictions, including auditing requirements for U.S. travelers.
- Continued support for the Cuban embargo and opposition to any efforts to lift it until democratic reforms occur.
- Expanded support for internet freedom and civil society in Cuba, including a new task force.
- Ongoing monitoring of human rights abuses and reporting on U.S. fugitives harbored in Cuba.
Think of it as a comprehensive crackdown on Cuba’s power structure—with implications for any U.S. professional operating near this policy lane.
So Why Should Clearance Holders Pay Attention?
If you have a security clearance, this memo doesn’t change your eligibility—but it does create new landmines to avoid. Here’s how it could impact you.
1. Foreign Travel Red Flags
If you’ve traveled to Cuba in the past—or plan to—at a minimum, expect questions.
All foreign travel must be reported to your FSO. But Cuba is now in a tighter spotlight. Under NSPM-5:
- Travel to Cuba is heavily restricted and closely audited.
- “Educational” and “people-to-people” travel needs to meet very specific conditions.
- Unauthorized trips could raise flags under Guideline L (Outside Activities) or Guideline B (Foreign Influence).
Even casual tourism from years ago might surface during a polygraph or continuous vetting. If you’ve been, make sure it’s been properly documented and disclosed.
2. Foreign Contacts and Financial Entanglements
Many Cuban businesses are tied to the regime—especially GAESA, which runs much of the country’s economy. If you’ve:
- Done business with Cuban-linked firms,
- Inherited property or financial interests,
- Or even used travel companies that interface with restricted entities…
…it could trigger a financial disclosure issue (SF-714) or scrutiny during your reinvestigation.
Bottom line: stay far away from any financial or business involvement linked to Cuba.
3. Mission and Tasking Shifts
Cuba is once again a named priority in national security. That means cleared professionals in intel, cyber, diplomatic affairs, or military operations may see shifts in their work, training, or regional focus. Expect more collection and analysis work related to Cuban surveillance, propaganda, human rights monitoring, or sanctions enforcement.
4. Legal and Compliance Awareness
For those in policy, legal, or compliance roles, there’s homework to do:
- Know what the Cuba Restricted List is (and how to avoid triggering it).
- Understand new enforcement rules under Treasury and Commerce.
- Be prepared to advise contractors or agencies on what’s allowed and what isn’t.
5. Past Activity Could Resurface
The memo doesn’t just impact future actions—it shines a light on the past. Any prior travel to Cuba, contact with Cuban nationals, study abroad or cultural exchanges, or financial investments could now prompt additional scrutiny. If you’ve been holding off on updating your disclosures, now’s the time to get your ducks in a row.
The Big Picture
This memo is part of a broader return to hardline foreign policy under the current administration. For clearance holders, it’s not just about staying on the right side of travel and finance rules—it’s about awareness. Cuba is back on the national security radar, and if you’re in this space, you should act accordingly.
Key Takeaways for Clearance Holders
- Report all foreign travel—including Cuba—to your FSO.
- Avoid any financial interactions tied to Cuban military or intelligence-linked entities.
- Review your past disclosures if you’ve had Cuba-related activity.
- Understand that Cuba is now a higher priority in intelligence and defense circles.
- Stay informed—as regulations shift, so do clearance risks.
If you’re not sure whether something in your past could raise a red flag, it’s better to self-report and clarify now rather than let it show up in a polygraph or background check.
Cuba may be 90 miles from Florida—but when it comes to national security, it’s suddenly a lot closer to home.
