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U.S. Military Readies Contingency Options for Cuba Amid Heightened Political Pressure
By Drooid · · How we work
Military Planning for Potential Action Against Cuba
An internal U.S. Army Reserve message reviewed by CBS News indicates that Southern Command is evaluating the availability of six formation types—including a combat sustainment support battalion, an engineer battalion, an expeditionary sustainment command, a medical brigade with forward surgical detachments, and a military police brigade—that could be required within 90-120 days. Commands were asked to submit feedback by September 25, 2026. The message makes no reference to Cuba, but officials familiar with the plan say the effort is part of continued contingency planning aimed at the island.
Recent U.S. Policy Pressure on Havana
Since re-entering office, President Donald Trump has intensified economic sanctions on Cuban entities, targeting military-linked research and nickel-industry firms ahead of the United Nations General Assembly. The administration has framed its stance under the self-named “Donroe Doctrine,” a modernized version of the Monroe Doctrine intended to curb perceived foreign adversaries in the Western Hemisphere.
Scope of Planned Forces and Recent Operations
Earlier this year, U.S. forces conducted seafloor reconnaissance around Cuba and placed air-power components on heightened readiness, though those preparations did not culminate in deployment. In July, planners examined a possible Army-led air assault by the 101st Airborne Division involving thousands of soldiers. Since September, U.S. strikes in the Caribbean Sea and eastern Pacific have killed more than 230 people in 70 operations. In April, U.S. and Ecuadorian troops jointly targeted a narco-terrorist hub, and in a recent operation U.S. troops and DEA agents helped Ecuadorian authorities arrest over 30 members of Mexico’s Jalisco New Generation Cartel.
Statements from U.S. and Cuban Leaders
U.S. Southern Command declined to comment on specific movements, citing operational security. President Trump asserted that Secretary of State Marco Rubio was “deep into negotiations” with Havana and vowed to prevent foreign adversaries from establishing a foothold “on our own doorstep.” Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel responded by accusing the United States of “aggression” and “economic warfare” for blocking oil imports and pledged to counter any U.S. attack.
Legal Concerns Over Recent Strikes
Legal experts have warned that the post-September strikes may constitute illegal extrajudicial killings, arguing that U.S. forces are prohibited from intentionally targeting civilians or individuals who do not meet the legal standard for use of force. No official U.S. response to those concerns was provided in the reporting.