Pentagon Considers Landing Troops in Cuba, Reports Say
The US Department of Defense is reviewing military scenarios against Cuba, including the use of the 101st Airborne Division, but an operation is unlikely soon due to resources committed in Iran.
The Pentagon has discussed several military scenarios regarding Cuba over the past few weeks, according to CBS News, citing multiple US officials. Among the options considered is landing troops from the 101st Airborne Division on the island. However, CBS News sources say the Defense Department has not yet made a final decision.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth previously did not rule out using force to resolve the Cuba issue. In June, he warned that Havana's attempts to acquire weapons that could threaten the US would lead to confrontation. Intelligence indicates Cuba has purchased more than 300 drones potentially for attacks on the Guantanamo base, US Navy ships, and Florida.
Despite these plans, CBS News sources believe a military operation against Cuba in the near future is unlikely because a significant portion of Pentagon forces and resources are involved in the war against Iran. Moreover, the Trump administration prefers to achieve regime change in Cuba through economic and diplomatic means.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio has repeatedly stated that Washington would prefer a technocratic government open to reforms in Havana. However, on July 11, he acknowledged that Cuba's leadership and its "corrupt elite" remain loyal to a "morally bankrupt Marxist ideology" and maintain absolute control over the country.
In May, CIA Director John Ratcliffe visited Cuba, promising expanded cooperation in exchange for reforms and reminding Havana of the operation to capture Venezuela's leader. Since Trump's return to the White House, Washington has increased pressure: Cuba was relisted as a state sponsor of terrorism, and in January Trump imposed an oil blockade, citing "extraordinary threats."
The US has maintained an economic embargo against Cuba for decades. In May, Cuban authorities admitted the critical state of the country's energy system. Trump has repeatedly spoken of the imminent collapse of the Cuban regime, promising to address the issue after Iran. The Wall Street Journal reported that Washington plans to achieve regime change in Cuba by the end of 2026.
Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel stated that the country is ready to resist a US invasion, vowing to fight and defend itself, and if destined to fall in battle, then dying for the homeland is living.
