"Gen Francis Donovan, head of US Southern Command, said the Pentagon stands ready to address any threats to the US embassy in Havana, defend its base at Guantanamo Bay, and aid US government efforts to address any mass migration from the island, if needed."
"Trump has also launched military strikes on suspected drug boats, killing at least 157 people and is expanding counter-narcotics alliances with pro-Washington governments in Latin America, such as Ecuador where US and local forces carried out joint anti-narcotics operations earlier this month."
"So far, US efforts appear aimed at creating economic leverage over the island. Trump has piled tremendous economic pressure on Cuba by halting all Venezuelan oil shipments to the island, which has been forced to carry out severe energy rationing. Much of its economy has ground to a halt."
General Francis Donovan, head of US Southern Command, clarified to lawmakers that the Pentagon is not rehearsing for or actively preparing a military invasion of Cuba. However, the military maintains readiness to protect US interests including the embassy in Havana, the Guantanamo Bay base, and to assist with potential mass migration. This statement addresses concerns following Trump's recent comments about taking Cuba. The Trump administration has significantly expanded military operations throughout Latin America, including the seizure of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro in January and increased counter-narcotics strikes. Current US strategy appears focused on economic pressure rather than direct military intervention, with Trump halting Venezuelan oil shipments to Cuba, causing severe energy shortages and economic collapse on the island.
Read at www.theguardian.com
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