The United States has slapped sanctions on Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel and top officials over their role in crushing the July 2021 protests.

Marking the fourth anniversary of the unrest, Washington imposed visa bans and targeted key figures, including the defense and interior ministers, for human rights abuses, according to Reuters.

The 2021 protests saw thousands march to the streets over food and gasoline shortages, with hundreds imprisoned and at least one killed—the largest rebellion since the 1959 revolution.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that the government continues to benefit insiders while regular Cubans suffer. Havana retaliated, calling the move interference.

The US embargo on Cuba remains in place, Reuters reported.