The Pentagon is accelerating plans for a possible military operation in Cuba, reportedly awaiting a decision from President Trump regarding intervention.
Trump’s Statements on Cuba
In March, Donald Trump stated he would “have the honor” of taking Cuba, asserting he could “do whatever I want” with the country.
During an April 13 interview with USA Today, Trump suggested a potential stop in Cuba “returning from Iran,” responding to questions about Iran and the U.S. blockade of Iranian ports.
Cuban President’s Response
Miguel Díaz-Canel declared on April 12, in an interview with NBC News, that Cuba would defend itself, even at the cost of lives, and its citizens are “ready to give their lives for the revolution.”
Díaz-Canel indicated Cuba remains open to dialogue with the United States, but only without preconditions demanding a change to Cuba’s political system.
US Restrictions and Cuban Energy Crisis
The United States has halted Venezuelan oil deliveries to Cuba and threatened tariffs on any country selling oil to the island nation. Cuba has not received oil shipments for over three months, according to a statement from the Cuban president on March 13.
On March 16, Cuba experienced a nationwide power grid failure affecting approximately 10 million people. High gasoline prices and rationing are also significant concerns.
