Which Cuban Leader Might Be the Next "Target" of Delta Force?

The surprising capture of Nicolás Maduro by a U.S. Delta Force team has sparked humor and irony within the Cuban community. Donald Trump, emboldened by his "Maduro operation," is showcasing a tough stance, while Secretary of State Marco Rubio hints that Havana could be Washington's next target. In fact, after Maduro's fall, the U.S. repositioned amphibious warships off Cuban shores as a warning to the Island's government. Amid this tension and satire, many are jokingly asking: which Cuban leader could be "abducted" by Delta Force in a hypothetical future mission? Here we present the "candidates" with a touch of humor and political irony:

Raúl Castro

At 94, the retired commander still holds the reins. Officially retired, Raúl continues to pull the strings of military and economic power (GAESA) from behind the scenes, using Díaz-Canel as a puppet. Capturing the true leader behind the curtain would be the ultimate prize of any operation. Of course, at his age, Delta Force would need to prepare a comfortable seat in the helicopter for him; but beware, the seasoned general would surely insist on bringing his olive-green uniform for the photo op.

Miguel Díaz-Canel

The quintessential "handpicked" leader. President of Cuba in name, but lacking real power, he serves as the convenient facade for the Castro-led leadership. If Delta Force were to take him, they might be surprised to find no remote control; all his orders came from Raúl. Known popularly as "the designated one," his capture would be more symbolic than strategic. Still, Díaz-Canel would likely try to persuade the commandos that "we are continuity"... even if that continuity ends up in a padded cell off the Island.

Manuel Marrero Cruz

Cuba's Prime Minister and loyal regime supporter. Formerly the Minister of Tourism, he is said to be an expert at "selling an image" (even if the Cuban reality is quite different). He could be a candidate for abduction simply to complete the government's sticker album. Marrero would probably blame the "blockade" even for his capture, claiming Delta Force is preventing him from fulfilling the economic plan—as if there were much of a plan to save. With his trademark mustache and script of excuses, he might end up offering the soldiers a vacation in Varadero in exchange for his release.

Ramiro Valdés

A historical commander of the Revolution and a strongman in Cuban security. At over 90, Ramiro has seen it all: from the Sierra Maestra to internet blackouts. Known for his tough repression, his resume includes controlling censorship and "advising" in Venezuela, so it's no surprise he might be in the crosshairs. If Delta Force "abducts" him, they'd be taking a living fossil of the Cold War (perhaps they should display him in a museum!). Still, don't underestimate him; the old warrior would probably try to give orders to his captors or at least scold them for "indiscipline" on the way to the plane.

Alejandro Castro Espín

An intelligence colonel and son of Raúl Castro. Nicknamed the "Prince in the Shadows," he has been identified as the brain behind Cuba's security apparatus. A nephew of Fidel and Raúl's only son, he represents the dynastic continuity of Castroism. A team capturing him would not only nab a second-generation Castro but also gain access to many regime secrets. Alejandro, known for his mysterious nature (with one eye on Washington and the other on state security), likely already has an escape route worthy of a movie prepared. Would they find him in a subterranean bunker? Perhaps, but if caught, Delta Force would check off a junior Castro from their list.

General Álvaro López Miera

The Minister of the Armed Forces and the highest active military authority in Cuba. A veteran of African wars and guardian of Castro's military doctrine, López Miera would be a logical target in any plan to topple the regime. He's the man who can mobilize tanks (if there's fuel) and troops loyal to the Party. His capture would leave the Cuban army without an operational head. We can imagine the general going over maps and recalling the Bay of Pigs, thinking: "this time they come by air...". If Delta Force surprises him, he might not even have time to say "Victory or Death!" before heading to international justice. This would be the definitive blow to the Castro military structure.

Donald Trump has already warned that he will not tolerate dictatorships in the hemisphere, and figures in Washington suggest that "Cuba is next" in line. Meanwhile, everyday Cubans, caught between humor and hope, fantasize about seeing these figures unexpectedly packing their bags. Who will be next on the list? In satire, at least, the "candidates" are already presented. All that's missing is the Delta Force "ship" to conduct the abduction—and many would be delighted to bid them a hearty farewell!