On Tuesday, U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth addressed Congress, affirming that the Cuban regime poses a significant threat to American national security.
During a hearing held by the House Appropriations Defense Subcommittee, Republican Congressman Mario Díaz-Balart questioned Hegseth, who confirmed the concerns that led President Donald Trump to issue an executive order in late January. This order declared a national emergency, citing the Cuban regime's policies and actions as an "unusual and extraordinary threat" to the nation's security and foreign policy.
The session, which commenced at 8 a.m. Eastern Time and included General Dan Caine, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, primarily focused on the 2027 military budget and the ongoing conflict with Iran. However, Díaz-Balart directed attention to Cuba, methodically outlining why the Havana regime is a direct danger to the United States.
The congressman inquired if Hegseth was aware that Cuba harbors terrorists and fugitives from U.S. justice. "Yes, I agree," Hegseth responded affirmatively.
Díaz-Balart also questioned whether the Cuban Air Force had shot down two American civilian aircraft in international airspace, killing U.S. citizens. Hegseth acknowledged, "I don't recall the exact year, but I believe that's correct," referring to the February 24, 1996 incident where Cuban MiG fighters downed two Brothers to the Rescue Cessna 337s over international waters, resulting in four deaths.
Regarding the use of Cuban ports by the Russian navy, including the nuclear submarine Kazan, Hegseth was unequivocal: "That's correct, Congressman."
When asked about the Russian signals intelligence complex in Lourdes, Cuba, the Secretary admitted, "We've long been concerned about a foreign adversary utilizing such a location so close to our shores, which is very concerning."
On the topic of Chinese operations in Cuba, Hegseth refrained from disclosing classified information but stated, "We do not want foreign adversaries attempting to use that."
The congressman further mentioned intelligence from Ukraine indicating thousands of Cubans fighting for Russia in Ukraine. While Hegseth was unaware of this specific detail, he confirmed the presence of Cuban personnel in Venezuela: "I'm very aware that Cubans have been worldwide, even trying to defend Maduro in Venezuela. It's something they've done for a long time."
Ukrainian intelligence estimates suggest up to 25,000 Cubans may have joined the Russian military, while a State Department cable from October 2025 reported between 1,000 and 5,000 actively engaged in combat. According to Ukraine's "I Want to Live" project, at least 93 Cubans have died in battle.
When asked if Cuba has been identified as one of the most advanced espionage operations against the United States—highlighted by intelligence during the Obama, Biden, and Trump administrations—Hegseth confirmed, "That all sounds very correct, sir."
Finally, Díaz-Balart posed a direct question: "Do you believe the Cuban regime poses a threat to the national security of the United States?" Hegseth's response was resounding: "Yes."
The congressman shared the exchange on social media, emphasizing that "past administrations have overlooked the threat, but the Trump administration is taking it seriously."
Trump reinstated Cuba on the list of State Sponsors of Terrorism on January 20, 2025, hours after beginning his second term, and in May 2025, the State Department under Marco Rubio re-added Cuba to the list of countries not cooperating with anti-terrorism efforts.
Understanding the Cuban Threat to U.S. National Security
Why is the Cuban regime considered a threat to U.S. national security?
The Cuban regime is considered a threat due to its policies and actions that are deemed "unusual and extraordinary," as well as its harboring of U.S. fugitives and terrorists, and collaboration with foreign adversaries like Russia and China.
What was the outcome of the 1996 incident involving Cuban MiGs?
In 1996, Cuban MiG fighters shot down two Brothers to the Rescue planes over international waters, resulting in the deaths of four U.S. citizens.
How has the Trump administration addressed the Cuban threat?
The Trump administration reinstated Cuba on the list of State Sponsors of Terrorism and included it among countries not cooperating with anti-terrorism efforts, highlighting the Cuban regime as a significant national security concern.