U.S. Repatriates 38 Cuban Migrants

The U.S. Coast Guard returned 38 Cuban migrants Thursday after they were picked up at sea on unseaworthy vessels.

The migrants were taken to Bahia de Cabanas, Cuba by the 154-foot cutter Raymond Evans, which is based in Key West, Florida, a Coast Guard statement said.

They had been on four vessels intercepted in the Straits of Florida.

The latest repatriation comes a day after the two countries announced they are restoring full diplomatic relations on July 20.

The United States grants residence to Cubans who manage to reach land, but returns those who are picked up at sea.

More than 2,900 Cubans have been picked up at sea since October trying to reach the United States on makeshift craft.