The Cuban Ministry of the Revolutionary Armed Forces (MINFAR) showcased their so-called "combat readiness" during Cuba's National Defense Day by releasing a video featuring maneuvers on old, ordinary motorcycles.
In a Facebook post, MINFAR boasted about how "mobile groups are coming together," alongside a somewhat lackluster video of motorcyclists riding, dismounting to shoot, and simulating combat in an open field.
The dated Cuban military equipment quickly became fodder for memes and mockery on social media, especially amid the growing tension between the Cuban regime and the Trump Administration.
Propaganda vs Reality
As state television praised the exercises as a "decisive response," "perfect coordination," and "guaranteed defense," images aired by Canal Caribe painted a different picture during the National Defense Day military drills.
The news described the operation as a "real battle" against a simulated enemy attempting to breach national territory via an alleged heliborne landing. Official reports claimed that the anti-aircraft defense responded swiftly, artillery opened fire, and troops successfully "repelled" the invader, securing the area seamlessly.
However, the released footage starkly contrasts the heroic narrative. Aging helicopters flew at low altitudes, with limited maneuvers and no visible complex operations. On the ground, rusty armored vehicles crawled slowly over dry, neglected terrain, more like a symbolic display than a modern combat exercise.
Diaz-Canel's Presence
Cuban leader Miguel Díaz-Canel attended the military exercises on Saturday amid rising tensions with the Trump Administration. He was seen at the Great Tank Unit of Combat Glory "Rescue of Sanguily" and later at an anti-aircraft defense unit, where he rallied the troops with the regime's usual propaganda slogans.
"The best way to deter aggression is for imperialism to calculate the cost of attacking our country. And this is closely related to the preparation we have for these military actions," he stated, according to the Cuban Presidency's report.
Joining him were the regime's top military officials: Army Corps General and Minister of the Revolutionary Armed Forces (FAR), Álvaro López Miera; Army Corps General Roberto Legrá Sotolongo, first deputy minister and Chief of the FAR General Staff; and Army Corps General and FAR deputy minister, Joaquín Quintas Solá.
"This takes on great importance in the current moment," he remarked regarding the exercises he observed: "given the entire hegemonic offensive being developed by the United States government."
He also highlighted the high levels "of preparation, cohesion you all have, and cooperation among different components of the territorial defense system."
"By participating in this way, preparing to defend the homeland, unity is achieved, and when we have united, history has shown we have always achieved victory," he added.
U.S. Tensions
Following the capture of Nicolás Maduro on January 3, the Trump administration is reportedly actively working to induce political change in Cuba before the year's end, according to an extensive investigation by The Wall Street Journal.
U.S. officials cited by the newspaper describe a "historic window of opportunity" to pressure the Cuban government toward collapse amid unprecedented economic deterioration and increasing regional isolation.
While there is no declared military plan or official timeline, the White House strategy involves intensifying economic, diplomatic, and symbolic pressures on the Cuban regime while seeking internal interlocutors willing to negotiate a potential transition.
In tandem with public pressure measures, the U.S. government has increased discreet contacts with the Cuban exile community and civic leaders in cities like Miami and Washington. The aim?: Identify potential figures within the Cuban state apparatus who "see what's coming" and are willing to negotiate an agreed exit.
According to The Wall Street Journal, several private meetings have been held, requesting information on Cuban officials or military personnel "willing to understand the historical moment" and break away from the leadership.
Frequently Asked Questions about Cuba's Military Readiness
What did MINFAR showcase during Cuba's National Defense Day?
MINFAR showcased outdated military maneuvers using old motorcycles, claiming it demonstrated "combat readiness."
How did the public react to the military display?
The public reacted with mockery and memes, highlighting the outdated equipment and lackluster display on social media.
What is the U.S. strategy towards Cuba as mentioned in the article?
The U.S. strategy involves intensifying economic, diplomatic, and symbolic pressures on Cuba, looking for internal figures willing to negotiate a transition.