Pentagon Prepares for Potential Military Operation in Cuba

The Pentagon has confirmed it is preparing a range of actions concerning Cuba and stands ready to execute orders from President Donald Trump. This statement comes in response to media reports about the U.S. Military planning a potential operation on the island.

"We will not speculate on hypothetical scenarios. The Department plans a range of actions for unforeseen circumstances and remains prepared to execute the President's orders as they are issued," a spokesperson for the U.S. Department of Defense stated.

This follows a report by USA Today, citing informed sources, that the U.S. Department of Defense has begun preparations for a possible military intervention in Cuba.

The developments come amid escalating rhetoric from Washington. On Monday, April 13, President Trump suggested the U.S. Might "take a look" at Cuba after dealing with issues concerning Iran. The previous day, Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel asserted that Cubans are ready to fight and die for their country. While he called reaching an agreement with Washington difficult but possible, he stressed there could be no justification for military aggression.

Tensions have been building since late January when President Trump signed an executive order allowing tariffs on imports from countries supplying oil to Cuba. He also declared a national emergency, citing an alleged threat from the island nation.

Cuba has since been grappling with a severe fuel crisis, leading to periodic blackouts and protests. The Cuban government accuses Washington of using an energy blockade to strangle its economy and make living conditions unbearable for its citizens.

Reports from The Wall Street Journal indicated that the U.S. Administration aims to facilitate a change in power in Cuba by the end of 2026. However, U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has dismissed information about plans to overthrow the Cuban leadership as false.