Cuba Prepares for Possible US Attack Amid Trump’s Threats, Says Vice Chancellor

• Why Is Cuba Preparing for a Possible US Attack?
• How Are US Sanctions Impacting Cuba’s Economy?
• What’s Behind Trump’s Hardline Stance on Cuba?
• Is Cuba Really on the Brink of Collapse?
• FAQs on Cuba-US Tensions

In a recent interview with NBC, Cuban Vice Foreign Minister Carlos Fernández de Cossío revealed that the island nation is bracing for a potential military attack from the United States. This comes as former President Donald TRUMP ramps up economic pressure on Havana and hints that Cuba could be the next target after Venezuela and Iran. The Cuban government, while emphasizing its sovereignty, is taking defensive measures amid escalating tensions. Meanwhile, Cuba faces severe energy shortages due to US sanctions, with multiple nationwide blackouts reported in recent months. Here’s a deep dive into the situation.

Why Is Cuba Preparing for a Possible US Attack?

Cuban officials have openly stated that their military is on high alert due to increasing rhetoric from Trump and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio. De Cossío emphasized that while Cuba hopes for peace, it WOULD be "naïve" not to prepare for aggression given global tensions. The country has historically faced US hostility, from the Bay of Pigs invasion to decades of economic embargoes. Now, with Trump suggesting he’d "have the honor" of annexing Cuba, Havana isn’t taking any chances.

How Are US Sanctions Impacting Cuba’s Economy?

The US embargo has tightened under Trump, leading to severe fuel shortages and rolling blackouts. Cuba has been forced to rely on solar energy, natural gas, and thermal power, but these alternatives haven’t prevented crippling outages—six in the past year alone. De Cossío called the fuel blockade "very serious" but expressed hope that it won’t last forever. Meanwhile, Cuba has made small concessions, like releasing political prisoners and opening its economy to expat investments, though Rubio dismissed these as "not ambitious enough."

What’s Behind Trump’s Hardline Stance on Cuba?

Trump’s comments about annexing Cuba and his belief that the country will "fall very soon" reflect his administration’s aggressive Latin America policy. Analysts suggest this is partly about rallying his base ahead of the 2026 elections. Still, Cuba insists it won’t negotiate its political system, with de Cossío stating, "The nature of the Cuban government is not up for discussion."

Is Cuba Really on the Brink of Collapse?

Despite hardships, Cuban leaders deny the country is collapsing. "We’re being as creative as possible," de Cossío said, pointing to alternative energy solutions. However, with blackouts worsening and Trump’s threats looming, the situation remains precarious. Whether Cuba can withstand prolonged pressure—or if the US will escalate further—remains to be seen.

FAQs on Cuba-US Tensions

What did Cuba’s vice chancellor say about a possible US attack?

Carlos Fernández de Cossío confirmed that Cuba’s military is preparing for potential aggression, citing Trump’s threats and global instability.

How many blackouts has Cuba experienced recently?

Cuba has suffered at least six nationwide blackouts in the past year, including a total outage last Saturday.

What are Cuba’s main energy sources now?

Due to fuel shortages, Cuba is relying on solar power, natural gas, and thermal energy.