Cuban leader Miguel Díaz-Canel stepped forward on Monday to express unwavering support for Nicolás Maduro, pledging Cuba's full backing of its Venezuelan ally just as the United States boosts its military presence in the Caribbean with destroyers and amphibious ships off the coast of Venezuela.
"All of Cuba's solidarity and support for the Bolivarian and Chavista Revolution, led by President Nicolás Maduro," Díaz-Canel declared on social media platform X, affirming that the "strength of Venezuela's civic-military union will overcome imperialist threats."
The stance taken by Havana aligns it closely with Caracas during a period of heightened regional tension. The U.S. recently doubled the bounty on Maduro's head, increasing it from $25 million to $50 million, and has mobilized a naval force of over 4,000 personnel, including marines, capable of executing amphibious operations.
The Pentagon claims this operation is a measure against drug trafficking, but both Caracas and Havana criticize it as an interventionist strategy. Accused by the U.S. of leading the Cartel of the Suns and orchestrating large-scale cocaine shipments, Maduro responded assertively, surrounded by military personnel, warning that an attempt to capture him could herald "the end of the American empire." Concurrently, he initiated the mobilization of millions of militia members to "defend our seas, skies, and land."
With the U.S. deployment off the Venezuelan coast, Cuba solidifies its role as a political shield for Chavismo. For Díaz-Canel, Washington's military threat provides an opportunity to demonstrate the intertwined fates of Caracas and Havana, despite the severe internal crisis plaguing the island.
Key Questions on U.S.-Venezuela Tensions
Why has the U.S. increased its military presence near Venezuela?
The U.S. claims that its increased military presence is aimed at combating drug trafficking operations in the region.
What is the significance of Díaz-Canel's support for Maduro?
Díaz-Canel's support underscores the close alliance between Cuba and Venezuela, reinforcing their united front against perceived U.S. imperialism.
How has Nicolás Maduro reacted to U.S. actions?
Maduro, accused by the U.S. of drug trafficking, has mobilized military forces and warned that attempts to capture him could lead to the downfall of the U.S. empire.