The US government has announced visa restrictions targeting several unnamed Central American officials and their families due to alleged involvement in Cuba’s medical mission programs. The US claims these programs involve forced labor and exploitation of Cuban workers, according to Reuters.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized that the move seeks to hold accountable those linked to such practices. Meanwhile, Cuba has denied the accusations, and some Caribbean leaders have defended the medical missions as vital healthcare support.

This action follows earlier US sanctions against Cuban officials connected to the country’s overseas labor export programs, Reuters reported.