The Cuban National Civil Defense Staff recently released a "Family Guide for Protection Against Military Aggression" on its official Facebook page, amid escalating tensions with the United States.
This nine-page document, emblazoned with the motto "Protect, Resist, Survive and Overcome," is part of the Meteor Exercise 2026. It instructs Cuban families on how to respond to aerial bombings, what essentials to pack in an emergency backpack, and how to administer first aid during armed conflict situations.
Key recommendations include preparing a family bag containing identification documents, a radio with alternative power, candles, matches, a flashlight, ready-to-eat food for three days (canned goods, cookies, fruits, bread, cereals), potable water, hygiene items, medications for chronic illnesses, and toys for young children.
Regarding conduct guidelines, the document advises recognizing warning signals for "enemy airstrikes," seeking shelter in basements, tunnels, or ditches, avoiding open spaces, refraining from touching suspicious objects, and not using elevators during alarms.
The introduction squarely blames the United States for threatening Cuba, explicitly referencing Fidel Castro: "Currently, it threatens military aggression and the destruction of our society, aiming to perpetuate capitalism in Cuba and eliminate the example of humanism and solidarity that it represents, annihilating the dream of our Commander-in-Chief Fidel Castro Ruz."
Provincial official media, such as the Provincial Government of People's Power in Camagüey and the Granma newspaper Venceremos, amplified the message, urging families to "study these measures with the same preparedness as facing natural disasters."
Reactions from Cubans on social media were marked by irony, sarcasm, and widespread indignation.
Critics focused on the contradiction of requesting backpacks filled with bread, cereals, and canned goods—precisely the items most scarce on the island—amid a severe supply crisis.
Many pointed out that the regime is shifting the responsibility of surviving conflict onto families, despite the humanitarian crisis that the government itself has caused through decades of mismanagement.
This guide is part of a sustained militaristic escalation throughout 2026, a year the regime declared as the "Year of Defense Preparation," with Saturdays designated as permanent military training days starting January 11.
On January 18, the National Defense Council, led by Raúl Castro, approved plans for "transitioning to a State of War."
The rhetoric intensified recently, with President Miguel Díaz-Canel on May 3 warning of the "imminence of a U.S. military aggression," asserting that "every Cuban has a rifle" and a designated defense position.
On May 5, the Ministry of Revolutionary Armed Forces declared that "the ceasefire order will never be given"; and on May 7, Roberto Morales Ojeda claimed that "the united people are our main weapon."
While the regime urges Cubans to prepare for war with backpacks they can't fill, the population grapples with over twelve-hour daily blackouts, food and medicine shortages, and unprecedented mass emigration.
Frequently Asked Questions on Cuba's Military Aggression Guide
What is the purpose of the Cuban military aggression guide?
The guide aims to instruct Cuban families on how to protect themselves during potential military aggression, including how to respond to aerial bombings and what to include in an emergency backpack.
How have Cubans reacted to the release of this guide?
Many Cubans have reacted with irony and indignation, pointing out contradictions such as the scarcity of recommended supplies amid the country's supply crisis.
Why is the Cuban government emphasizing military readiness in 2026?
The Cuban government has declared 2026 as the "Year of Defense Preparation" and is focusing on military readiness due to perceived threats and escalating tensions with the United States.
What are the challenges faced by Cuban citizens amid these preparations?
Cuban citizens are facing challenges such as extended power outages, severe shortages of food and medicine, and a significant increase in emigration rates.