From the CNN News story: "While only Congress can formally overturn the five decades-long embargo, the White House has some authorities to liberalize trade and travel to the island. And Obama said he plans to "engage Congress in an honest and serious conversation" on lifting it." ("It" being the embargo.)
So the embargo was not lifted. What could be done to ease tensions, and bring home some Americans, was done. It is only a start. It is interesting too that the Pope was instrumental in the dialog, as well as Canadian diplomats.
Here is a link to the CNN article for those interested:
http://www.cnn.com/2014/12/17/politi...html?hpt=hp_t1