Cuba, Lacking Bank, Closes U.S. Consular Services The Cuban government said Tuesday that it was shutting down nearly all of its consular services in the United States "until further notice" because it was unable to find a bank willing to handle its business. The decision threatens to disrupt a recent surge in travel between the United States and Cuba on the eve of the holiday season. The Cuban Interests Section in Washington said that it was informed by its bank, M&T Bank, in July that it would no longer be able to provide services to foreign missions. Because of the United States economic embargo and "despite the numerous efforts made with the Department of State," Cuba has been unable to find a bank to handle its United States accounts, the government said. Travel companies said the decision would affect many travelers who need documents approved by Cuban consular officials before departure. A State Department spokeswoman said the department had been "actively working" with the Cubans to identify a new bank for the missions.