Amid escalating tensions with the United States and recent developments in Venezuela following Nicolás Maduro's capture, Havana's regime has ramped up its militaristic rhetoric, asserting that the Cuban populace is ready to defend the government under any confrontational circumstances.
The Ministry of the Revolutionary Armed Forces (MINFAR) took to social media, asserting that any aggressor attempting to seize the nation would face "a very high price," emphasizing that Cuba has been transformed into "a trap for any invader for all time."
This declaration once again places the civilian population at the forefront of a potential conflict, under the historical doctrine of "war of all the people," a Castro-era philosophy that burdens citizens with the human cost of war.
While MINFAR attempts to soften its message by claiming it's not promoting violence, the statement acknowledges that if aggression occurs, armed struggle would be "the method imposed by the enemy" and the sole means to assert the supposed rights of the people.
Critics of the regime argue that this narrative normalizes the mass sacrifice of civilians in defending political power, while the state sidesteps accountability for the actual repercussions of a conflict.
In a subsequent announcement, the Ministry declared the initiation of the "Year of Preparation for Defense" across the nation starting January 12. This message reinforces the concept of total militarization, stating that "within every soldier, there's a potential commander-in-chief," and under certain conditions, "each man can become his own commander-in-chief."
For analysts and opposition groups, these statements indicate that the regime is once again relying on ideological and military mobilization as a tool for internal control, precisely when Cuba is experiencing one of its most severe economic, social, and demographic crises in recent history.
As millions of Cubans endure blackouts, shortages, and enforced migration, the official discourse prioritizes the glorification of war over tangible solutions to the country's pressing issues.
Understanding Cuba's Military Posture and Its Implications
What is the "war of all the people" doctrine?
The "war of all the people" doctrine is a Castro-era philosophy that involves the entire Cuban population in the defense of the nation, placing the burden of war on ordinary citizens.
How does the MINFAR's message impact Cuban society?
The MINFAR's message intensifies militarization and ideological mobilization, potentially diverting focus from addressing Cuba's severe economic and social issues.
What are the criticisms of the Cuban regime's current rhetoric?
Critics argue that the regime's rhetoric normalizes civilian sacrifices for political power and avoids addressing the real consequences of conflict.