Cuba is moving towards declaring a “state of war” in response to escalating tensions following the United States’ detention of Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro. The Cuban National Defense Council announced on October 29, 2023, that it has approved “plans and measures” to implement this nationwide state, aiming to counter perceived threats from former President Donald Trump and his administration.
The state media release indicated that the proposed measures would draw from the concept of a “war of all the people,” a strategy that was prominent during the 1980s under former leader Fidel Castro. Specific details regarding the execution of these plans remain unclear. This policy, which forms a core part of Cuba’s military doctrine, requires civilian participation in defense efforts, preparing the population for potential military confrontations.
Training initiatives have been put in place, equipping residents across Cuba with combat and weaponry skills to bolster the island’s defenses. This response follows the Trump administration’s recent actions, which included cutting off Venezuelan oil supplies and intensifying economic sanctions. Marco Rubio, the US Secretary of State and son of Cuban exiles, has predicted a crisis for Cuba as Maduro’s regime faces diminishing support.
Cuba is currently grappling with one of its most severe economic downturns since the 1959 revolution. Despite the challenges, President Miguel Díaz-Canel has publicly dismissed Trump’s claims of impending doom for the nation. He often appears in military attire, emphasizing a readiness to defend against US aggression.
The Cuban government has stepped up its anti-imperialist rhetoric, conducting military drills to demonstrate resilience against perceived threats from Washington. In a recent statement, the Cuban military declared its readiness to “defend the homeland, the revolution, and socialism in any circumstance and condition, even death if necessary.”
During a public funeral for 32 Cuban guards killed in a recent attack in Caracas, Díaz-Canel addressed the crowd with a fervent message: “Homeland or death, we will prevail.” He highlighted the determination of the Cuban people, stating, “We are millions of Cubans, ready to fight if we are attacked with the same ferocity as our 32 fallen combatants.” This strong rhetoric underscores the commitment of the Cuban leadership to resist external threats and maintain sovereignty amidst a challenging geopolitical landscape.
As Cuba prepares for potential conflict, the international community is closely watching the developments in this long-standing confrontation between Havana and Washington. The implications of this situation extend beyond the Caribbean, influencing diplomatic relations and regional stability.
