United States expands intelligence pressure on Cuba

The United States has intensified its pressure campaign against Cuba, according to reports detailing expanded intelligence activities and efforts to identify alternative leadership. The CIA has reportedly established a dedicated Cuba task force, which includes intelligence analysts, case officers, cyberoperations personnel, and specialists in covert influence operations. The primary focus of this task force is to create divisions within Cuba’s political leadership.

The Trump administration has elevated Cuba to an intelligence priority, prompting several U.S. agencies to expand collection efforts. This intelligence may be used to update potential military options, though the CIA task force is not currently authorized for lethal operations.

U.S. officials are exploring whether a current or former Cuban official could emerge as an alternative leader willing to cooperate with Washington. The administration is reportedly combining political and economic demands with potential incentives, such as sanctions relief or additional humanitarian assistance. However, recent Cuban reforms have reportedly not met these demands, and some officials warn that external pressure could inadvertently result in a more hard-line leadership in Cuba.