[REVISION HISTORY]

U.S. military planning and shifting diplomatic tone toward|s

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2026-10-24 21:10 UTC → 2026-10-25 15:04 UTC · added ~~removed~~

U.S. military planners continue to evaluate scenarios for potential action against Cuba, even as President Donald Trump signals a potential shift toward diplomacy. While the President previously characterized the island as a ‘failed state,’ he has recently stated that the United States and Havana will likely reach an agreement, expressing an intent to ‘help Cuba’ and open the island to Cuban-Americans. Trump has indicated that military intervention is likely unnecessary and that he does not believe U.S. troops will be drawn into a new crisis. Despite this diplomatic signaling, the Pentagon is proceeding with contingency planning. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has stated that ‘all options are on the table, including military.’ Recent reports indicate the U.S. Army Reserve is reviewing the availability of support units for assignment to U.S. Southern Command within a 90 to 120-day window. Additionally, Secretary of State Marco Rubio has characterized Cuba as a primary sponsor of terrorism and stated the U.S. is prepared for an invasion if ordered. Tensions have escalated following Trump’s suggestion that U.S. warships returning from Iran might anchor near the Cuban coast to pressure Havana, with Rubio sent to ‘finish the deal.’ In a recent development, Rubio publicly urged Cuban citizens seeking ‘positive change’ to establish discrete partnerships with the CIA, citing corruption and unfulfilled promises on the island. The CIA has since released video instructions in Spanish advising individuals on how to contact the agency securely using VPNs and non-traceable devices. Cuban officials have mocked this recruitment attempt, with Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez describing U.S. ambitions as hostile and Deputy Foreign Minister Carlos Fernández de Cosío characterizing it the efforts as a sign of ‘desperation’ within the U.S. intelligence community. Meanwhile, Cuba faces intensified pressure from a de facto oil embargo and increased sanctions.

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