Cuba's Deputy Foreign Minister, Carlos Fernández de Cossío, has declared that the Cuban government is gearing up for a potential military conflict with the United States.
"Our military forces are always on alert, and indeed, they are currently preparing for the possibility of an armed confrontation," Fernández de Cossío stated on NBC's Meet the Press this past Sunday.
While he acknowledged that such a scenario seems distant, he emphasized the importance of readiness, saying, "We don't see it as likely, but it would be foolish not to be prepared."
Diplomatic Stance and Political Discussions
The Deputy Minister expressed skepticism about the necessity of such a conflict, indicating that the regime hopes it won't transpire. "We don't see any reason for it to happen," he remarked.
When asked whether the Cuban government would consider political reforms, such as releasing political prisoners or allowing free political parties and press, to prevent military action, Fernández de Cossío sidestepped with the regime's typical propaganda rhetoric.
He drew comparisons with the United States, noting, "The U.S. has many prisoners, only two political parties, and I doubt they would negotiate such matters with a foreign power."
Current State of U.S.-Cuba Relations
Fernández de Cossío confirmed that, to his knowledge, discussions with the U.S. are confined to bilateral issues. When asked if regime change in Cuba was off the table, he responded emphatically, "Absolutely."
A day earlier, a regime spokesperson had already affirmed that "Cuba's political system is not up for negotiation," nor are any government positions.
During a press briefing, De Cossío described negotiations with the United States as "very sensitive" and stated that the government is handling them "discreetly." He refused to disclose details about the ongoing talks.
He firmly stated, as reported by the EFE news agency, "I can categorically confirm that Cuba's political system is not up for negotiation, nor are the president or any government position, with the United States or any other country."
Fernández de Cossío criticized any attempt to undermine Cuba's independence as "completely unacceptable."
Key Questions About U.S.-Cuba Military Tensions
Is the Cuban military preparing for a U.S. attack?
Yes, according to Deputy Foreign Minister Carlos Fernández de Cossío, the Cuban military is preparing for the possibility of a U.S. military action.
What is the Cuban government's stance on political negotiations with the U.S.?
The Cuban regime insists that its political system and government positions are not open to negotiation with the United States or any other country.