Amid escalating tensions between the White House and the Cuban government, Puerto Rico's governor, Jenniffer González Colón, has expressed her support for any actions by President Donald Trump to "liberate" Cuba, even if it involves military intervention from Puerto Rican soil.
"I have no information about that (intervention plan in Cuba from Puerto Rico), but anything that supports our military forces and the president's public policy, of course I will be in favor," she stated in remarks reported by Telemundo Puerto Rico.
"We demonstrated it in the case of Nicolás Maduro in Venezuela. I have no information that such planning is taking place in Puerto Rico, but I support the public policy actions the president is undertaking to free the Cuban people," González added during a military event last week at Camp Santiago in the municipality of Salinas.
The governor made these comments while responding to journalists’ questions after inspecting modernization work at the military facility, which is one of the primary training centers for the Puerto Rican National Guard, currently undergoing expansion thanks to a $300 million federal investment.
Trump's Foreign Policy and Puerto Rico's Role
González's remarks, aligned with Trump's foreign policy, did not go unnoticed. Her reference to the case of Nicolás Maduro, who was captured by U.S. forces on January 3 in an operation that included logistical support from Puerto Rico, strengthens the hypothesis that this Caribbean territory plays a key role in the military strategy of the current Republican administration.
Since that operation—which also led to the arrest of Cilia Flores, Maduro's wife, and her transfer to New York for legal proceedings—President Trump has mentioned Cuba as another potential target, claiming that "the actions of the Cuban government are designed to harm the United States and support hostile countries."
Although the president's exact intentions regarding Cuba remain unclear, he recently stated he is initiating a dialogue process with "Cuban leaders" and threatened to cut off the island's oil supply as a pressure tactic.
Military Modernization: Context and Impact
During the conference at Camp Santiago, Jenniffer González showcased progress on the largest military infrastructure project in Puerto Rico's recent history. Funded by federal resources, the project encompasses the construction of 29 new buildings, with $268 million allocated for construction and $32 million for design.
The governor highlighted that the project will create 400 direct jobs, 200 indirect jobs, and generate over $8 million in state and local revenue.
On the same day, the Puerto Rican government signed new lease agreements with the U.S. Army for the use of key facilities, including the airports in Ceiba, Aguadilla, and Mercedita (Ponce).
According to Norberto Negrón, director of the Ports Authority, these agreements have brought economic benefits at the local level. Héctor Morales, president of the Planning Board, estimated that military investment on the island exceeds $832 million, with a total economic impact of over $2 billion, including the creation of 12,346 jobs and $254 million in salaries.
Frequently Asked Questions About Puerto Rico's Role in U.S. Military Strategy
What is Puerto Rico's stance on potential military intervention in Cuba?
Puerto Rico's governor, Jenniffer González Colón, has expressed support for any military actions by the U.S. that aim to "liberate" Cuba, aligning with President Trump's policies.
How is Puerto Rico involved in U.S. military operations?
Puerto Rico plays a strategic role in U.S. military operations, providing logistical support, as evidenced in the operation against Nicolás Maduro in Venezuela. The island is also experiencing significant military infrastructure investments.
What economic benefits does Puerto Rico gain from military investments?
Military investments in Puerto Rico have led to the creation of thousands of jobs and significant economic impact, with over $2 billion in total benefits, including salaries and state revenue.