Cuba’s military is preparing for a potential U.S. Military intervention, according to comments made Saturday by Deputy Foreign Minister Carlos Fernández de Cossío. He stated it would be “naive” for Cuban leaders to dismiss the possibility of conflict, particularly given recent escalations in regional tensions.
Rising Tensions
Fernández de Cossío told NBC News’ “Meet the Press” that Cuba’s military is “always prepared” and currently focused on preparations for “the possibility of military aggression.” This comes after a U.S. Military operation in Venezuela led to the capture of President Nicolas Maduro, a close ally of Cuba’s leadership. Following that operation, President Donald Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio suggested military intervention in Cuba could follow.
The Cuban government is currently experiencing a severe economic crisis, including daily power outages, exacerbated by disruptions in oil shipments and the ongoing U.S. Blockade. Fernández de Cossío attributed the current fuel shortages to the U.S. “threatening with coercive measures” against countries exporting fuel to Cuba.
Dialogue and Sovereignty
Despite the heightened tensions, Cuba remains open to dialogue with the U.S., according to Fernández de Cossío. However, he stressed that certain issues, including Cuba’s constitution, economy, and socialist system, are “off the table” for negotiation. He also stated that regime change is not a subject for discussion.
Responding to recent comments by President Trump suggesting he could “take” Cuba, Fernández de Cossío reaffirmed Cuba’s sovereignty and right to self-determination. He also addressed remarks made by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, dismissing them as evidence of Cuba’s challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Cuba currently in talks with the U.S.?
According to Deputy Foreign Minister Carlos Fernández de Cossío, Cuba does not currently have a “table of dialogue” with the United States, but is open to one if certain criteria are met.
What prompted the recent increase in tensions between the U.S. And Cuba?
The escalation in tensions followed a U.S. Military operation in Venezuela that resulted in the capture of President Nicolas Maduro, who had a close relationship with Cuba’s leadership.
What is Cuba doing to address its current economic crisis?
Cuba is “acting as proactively as we can” to cope with fuel shortages and power outages, and hopes fuel will reach the island “one way or the other,” according to Fernández de Cossío.
Given the current state of affairs, what steps might the U.S. And Cuba take to de-escalate tensions and potentially resume meaningful dialogue?
