Cuba says it will mobilise for any US aggression, dismissing invasion fears while denying regime change discussions with Washington.
Cuba has declared it is prepared to defend itself against any potential military action from the United States, as tensions rise following rhetoric from Donald Trump and an ongoing oil blockade.
Speaking over the weekend, Cuban Deputy Foreign Minister Carlos Fernandez de Cossio said the country remains ready, even though it does not consider a conflict likely.
“Our country has historically been ready to mobilize as a nation as a whole for military aggression … We don’t believe it is something that is probable, but we would be naive if we do not prepare,” he said.
“We don’t see why it would have to occur, and we find no justification whatsoever.”
The comments follow escalating statements from Trump, who said he expected to have the “honor” of taking Cuba, as Washington’s oil blockade deepens economic strain on the Caribbean nation.
Despite the rising tensions, de Cossio pushed back against reports suggesting the US is seeking to remove Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel from power.
He said any discussion about altering Cuba’s political leadership is not part of ongoing talks between Havana and Washington, stressing that regime change is “absolutely” off the table
Meanwhile, a top US general overseeing military operations in Latin America told lawmakers that the US military is not rehearsing for an invasion or actively preparing to take control of the island.
The developments highlight strained relations between both countries, even as diplomatic talks continue under mounting economic and political pressure.