The Cuban government has declared that it is not naive in the face of President Donald Trump's threats, asserting that the island nation has bolstered its defense capabilities in anticipation of potential military action from the United States.
These remarks were made by Lianys Torres Rivera, the chargé d'affaires of the Cuban Embassy in Washington, during an interview with Reuters on Monday. She discussed the increasing tensions between Havana and the Trump administration.
Torres emphasized that while Cuba remains open to "respectful" dialogue with Washington, it is acutely aware of Trump's threats, prompting an escalation in its defensive preparations.
"Cuba has always been readying itself for a U.S. assault," the diplomat stated. "And we're enhancing our capabilities now more than ever... It's for our self-defense," she stressed.
Although Torres did not specify what these additional capabilities entail or detail specific military measures taken in recent months, the Cuban government has widely publicized its alleged preparations.
Her remarks come amid escalating tensions between the two nations. Throughout 2026, the Trump administration has tightened its policies toward Havana, while Cuban officials have repeatedly emphasized the necessity of preparing for potential U.S. military action.
This rhetoric is not new. Just two days before Torres's interview, Deputy Foreign Minister Carlos Fernández de Cossío stated it would be "naive" and "irresponsible" for the Cuban government not to take U.S. aggression threats seriously.
Fernández had previously echoed similar sentiments, noting that the regime is attentive to reports of possible U.S. military preparations and that Cuba would have to rely on itself for defense in the event of an intervention. "We are on our own," he declared at that time.
In March, the deputy foreign minister openly acknowledged that the Cuban military was gearing up for the possibility of U.S. military action. "Our army is always ready, and indeed, it is currently preparing for the possibility of military aggression," he told NBC.
Defensive preparedness has been a stated priority for the authorities throughout 2026. This year was designated as the "Year of Defense Preparation," with the Revolutionary Armed Forces conducting exercises involving rifles, drones, and anti-tank mines amid growing tensions with Washington.
In May, the Cuban Foreign Ministry warned that "if Cuba is attacked, it will exercise its right to self-defense," following reports of Havana acquiring over 300 military drones from Russia and Iran.
In July, the National Assembly intensified the rhetoric, asserting that any U.S. military intervention would meet "steadfast and unwavering resistance," with the country defending its sovereignty "to the last consequence."
Amid these defensive preparations, communication channels between Havana and Washington remain open. In the same Reuters interview, Torres Rivera confirmed the absence of formal negotiations with the United States but acknowledged ongoing meetings, phone calls, and messages between representatives of both governments.
As revealed in her statements, the diplomat characterized the current relationship with the U.S. as consisting of "communication channels."
This description contrasts with President Trump's remarks at the United Nations in September, where he claimed Secretary of State Marco Rubio was deeply involved in talks with Havana.
However, Torres maintained that these contacts have not progressed toward a negotiation agenda or the resumption of official talks.
Furthermore, she insisted that Cuba's political system remains off-limits in any potential negotiations, describing it as a "red line" for the regime.
Understanding Cuba's Defense Strategy
Why has Cuba increased its defense capabilities?
Cuba has ramped up its defense capabilities in response to perceived threats from the Trump administration, preparing for the possibility of U.S. military intervention.
What has the Cuban government done to prepare for a potential U.S. attack?
While specific details on military measures are undisclosed, the Cuban government has declared 2026 as the "Year of Defense Preparation," conducting military exercises and acquiring drones from foreign allies.
Are there ongoing negotiations between Cuba and the United States?
Although formal negotiations are not taking place, there are communication channels through meetings and calls between representatives of both countries.