The Cuban Western Army has issued an official statement on its social media platform, X, advocating for Active Military Service (AMS) as a means of combat readiness in the face of potential external threats. This announcement comes amid heightened tensions with Washington following the capture of Nicolás Maduro by U.S. special forces.
Accompanied by images of recruits tackling obstacle courses, the message highlights that participating in the AMS is "an opportunity to serve the Fatherland with weapons in hand if necessary." It further emphasizes that "each day of combat training strengthens the character of Cuban youth, transforming them into steadfast guardians of the Revolution."
This declaration follows a visit by Díaz-Canel to the Western Army Headquarters, where he was joined by Prime Minister Manuel Marrero Cruz, Generals Álvaro López Miera and Lázaro Álvarez Casas, Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez Parrilla, and other Political Bureau members. During the visit, plans for the so-called "War of All the People" were discussed.
The backdrop to this militaristic rhetoric is the January 3 capture of Nicolás Maduro by the U.S. Army's Delta Force, an action confirmed by President Donald Trump. Cuba condemned the operation as "state terrorism," with Díaz-Canel vowing to sacrifice his blood and life for Maduro.
In reaction, the Cuban regime declared 2026 as the "Year of Defense Preparation," officially launching it on January 12 with ceremonies across the country's three armies.
Since then, the Western Army has conducted military exercises every Saturday, designated as National Defense Day, including AK-47 rifle shooting practices, rocket launching, drone operations, and simulations on training grounds.
Despite these efforts, the exercises have sparked ridicule rather than fear on social media. Cuban users have pointed out the stark contrast between the regime's martial propaganda—featuring outdated weaponry, worn-out uniforms, and inadequate resources—and the harsh reality of life on an island plagued by daily power outages exceeding 20 hours.
Meanwhile, U.S. Marines conducted military drills in the Caribbean involving live-fire and aerial operations in February, amidst ongoing tensions with Havana.
The Delta Force, an elite unit established in 1977 with missions in Somalia, Iraq, and Afghanistan, is cited by the Cuban regime as a justification for its military mobilization campaign. However, the disparity between the military capabilities of the two nations could hardly be greater.
Understanding the Cuban Military Situation
What prompted the Cuban Western Army's recent announcement?
The announcement was prompted by heightened tensions with the United States following the capture of Nicolás Maduro by U.S. special forces.
How has the Cuban public reacted to the military exercises?
The military exercises have been met with ridicule on social media, highlighting the disparity between the regime's propaganda and the harsh realities on the island.
What is the significance of the Delta Force in this context?
The Delta Force is used by the Cuban regime as a justification for military mobilization, despite the significant gap in military capabilities between the two countries.