Miguel Díaz-Canel, the Cuban leader, issued a stark warning to the United States, asserting that the island would retaliate with guerrilla warfare tactics if a military intervention were to occur.
Speaking in an exclusive interview with Newsweek in Havana—his first with a U.S. media outlet since 2023—Díaz-Canel emphasized that while his government remains open to dialogue, they are fully prepared to confront any potential assault.
"We always strive for peace, but if military aggression happens, we will fight back and defend ourselves," stated Díaz-Canel. He stressed that the response would involve "the participation of the entire Cuban population."
Historical Strategy and Dire Warnings
Drawing on the historical "war of the entire people" doctrine, a long-standing strategy of the regime, Díaz-Canel cautioned that any military action by Washington would result in "immeasurable losses" for both nations.
"The loss of human lives and material destruction would be incalculable," he asserted, further emphasizing that there is no justification for military aggression from the United States.
Rising Tensions
These statements come amidst escalating tensions between the two countries, highlighted by recent warnings from President Donald Trump, who has hinted that Cuba might be the next target following military operations in Venezuela and Iran.
Since January, Cuba has been grappling with a severe energy crisis exacerbated by restrictions on oil supplies, leading to increased blackouts, shortages, and social unrest.
The U.S. government has defended its actions by labeling Cuba as a national security threat, citing its connections with nations like Russia, China, and Iran. Cuban authorities have consistently rejected these allegations.
Internal Crisis and External Pressures
The tightening of sanctions has further driven up food prices and exacerbated medicine shortages, amid an economic downturn that directly impacts the Cuban populace.
In this context, Díaz-Canel acknowledged ongoing talks between officials of both countries, albeit admitting that the dialogue remains "challenging."
"I believe dialogue is possible, but it must be respectful, on equal terms, and based on international law," he asserted.
Despite recent U.S. military actions in Venezuela and Iran leading to the downfall of their leaders, the Cuban leader dismissed concerns for his personal safety.
"I am not worried about my personal safety. The leadership of the revolution is collective," he stated.
Nevertheless, he reiterated that his government seeks a diplomatic resolution to avoid direct confrontation, though he admitted that Washington's recent actions have fostered distrust among Cubans.
Understanding U.S.-Cuba Tensions
Why did Díaz-Canel warn the United States about guerrilla warfare?
Díaz-Canel issued a warning of guerrilla warfare to emphasize Cuba's readiness to defend itself against any military intervention by the United States, drawing on the historical "war of the entire people" strategy.
What has contributed to the rising tensions between Cuba and the United States?
Tensions have been escalating due to recent warnings from the U.S. and President Trump's hints at Cuba as a potential target, alongside Cuba's energy crisis and the tightening of U.S. sanctions.