If you have visited Cuba recently you will need to apply for a Visa to enter the US. You won’t be able to apply for an ESTA.

Answering a reader question regarding Cuba 

Hi Sammual

I was wondering if you have any information on. We live in UK, and we are on holiday in Cuba,  we are booked up to go to NYC in Jan 2023. I understand Cuba is one of 4 countries US have classed as a terrorist country. US have said if you have traveled to Cuba, you cannot visit US can you give me any more information on this please. 

My answer: Hi, sadly you won't be able to enter the USA on a ESTA, you will need to make an application for a US Visa. 

Website for a US Tourism Visa: https://uk.usembassy.gov/visas/

The US CBP website states: " If a traveler is found to have visited a country designated as State Sponsor of Terrorism, the traveler is no longer eligible to participate in the Visa Wavier Program and must apply for a visa to enter the United States."