In an interview aired on Univisión's "Al Punto Florida" this past Sunday, Miami Mayor Eileen Higgins shared that the city is ready with a contingency plan for the day Cuba gains its freedom.
"We have been methodically preparing. Our community eagerly awaits the day when Cuba is finally liberated, and we anticipate people will be out either celebrating or protesting. The key is ensuring everyone's safety," Higgins stated roughly 45 minutes into the YouTube broadcast.
The plan includes deploying police, firefighters, and paramedics, bearing in mind that the celebration would likely occur in the heat of summer.
"Our police force is on standby, and our firefighters and paramedics are prepared because the summer heat can sometimes be overwhelming. We are fully ready. Additionally, we communicate daily with state authorities and the federal government to ensure we're prepared," the mayor added.
Regarding Miami's bay, Higgins clarified that while the city lacks authority over vessels, its primary responsibility is to save lives.
"We won't permit any boats or situations where lives are at risk. However, once lives are saved, we must wait for the Coast Guard and federal government to take over. They have jurisdiction over these matters," she explained.
Higgins' comments come amid heightened anticipation in Miami's Cuban exile community, spurred by the Trump administration's maximum pressure policy on the Havana regime.
Last Wednesday, Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced new sanctions targeting GAESA, the Cuban military conglomerate, its CEO Ania Guillermina Lastres Morera, and the mining company Moa Nickel S.A..
In the same program, Senator Rick Scott exclusively mentioned that "Cuban freedom is much closer" and that military action, while possible, isn't necessarily required.
Analyst Luis Zúñiga from the Cuban Assembly of Resistance was more straightforward: "Conditions are being set for an operation if the regime resists the proposed solution."
The State Department has indicated that GAESA controls illicit assets exceeding $20 billion, with revenues surpassing the Cuban state's budget, yet the Cuban people see none of these benefits.
Achievements and Future Goals of Mayor Higgins
Higgins also reflected on her first 100 days as Miami's first female mayor, assuming office on December 20, 2025.
Among her achievements, she highlighted streamlining the permit system for homeowners, reopening Flagler Street after a decade of construction, accelerating affordable housing initiatives, and securing nearly $400 million in federal funding for the train linking downtown Miami and Fort Lauderdale.
Long-term, her focus is on public safety: she proposes an August election bond to refurbish police and fire department facilities, many over 50 years old and lacking potable water, without raising existing rates.
Foreign companies tied to GAESA have until June 5, 2026, to cease operations or face secondary sanctions, coinciding with the arrival of the World Cup in Miami.
Frequently Asked Questions About Miami's Plan for a Free Cuba
What is Miami's contingency plan for a free Cuba?
Miami's plan includes deploying police, firefighters, and paramedics to ensure public safety during the celebrations or protests expected to occur when Cuba gains its freedom.
How is Miami preparing for potential boat activities in the bay?
While the city doesn't have authority over vessels, it prioritizes saving lives and will coordinate with the Coast Guard and federal government for further action.
What new sanctions were announced by Marco Rubio?
Marco Rubio announced sanctions against GAESA, its CEO Ania Guillermina Lastres Morera, and the mining company Moa Nickel S.A.