Cuba Reviews War Preparedness Amid Escalating Tensions with the United States

Amid growing tensions with the United States following the removal of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, Cuba has begun assessing its readiness for a potential conflict. The move reflects increasing concern in Havana as diplomatic and political pressure from Washington intensifies.

Pressure Mounts After Maduro’s Capture

Since U.S. special forces captured Nicolás Maduro and his wife on January 3, former U.S. President Donald Trump has sharply escalated pressure on Cuba. The Caribbean nation remains one of the last Latin American countries governed under an authoritarian socialist system, making it a focal point of Washington’s regional strategy.

State-run Cuban media reported on Sunday that the government convened a meeting of the country’s National Defense Council to evaluate its preparedness for war. The session was held against the backdrop of rising hostility between Havana and Washington following Maduro’s overthrow in Venezuela.

The National Defense Council is constitutionally mandated to assume control of the country in the event of war or a major natural disaster. According to an official statement released through state media, the council met on Saturday “to increase and perfect the level of preparation and cohesion of leadership and personnel organs.”

The statement further explained that the meeting aimed “to analyze and approve plans and measures for shifting to a state of war” should Cuba face confrontation with another nation. Authorities did not provide additional operational details.

Headed by President Miguel Díaz-Canel, the group had not convened since the U.S. military operation in Venezuela. During that raid, dozens of individuals were killed, including 32 Cuban troops, some of whom were reportedly part of Maduro’s personal security detail.

Cuba Rejects U.S. Pressure and Threats

Following Maduro’s removal, President Díaz-Canel issued a strong response last week to Trump’s warning that Cuba should “make a deal” or face consequences. The Cuban leader dismissed claims that negotiations were underway between Havana and Washington.

Trump has also pledged to cut off Venezuela’s financial and oil support to Cuba, a move that could further strain the island nation’s already fragile economy. Cuban authorities view these actions as part of a broader campaign aimed at destabilizing the government.