US Army Reserve Evaluates Units for Cuba Contingency Planning

The United States Army Reserve is evaluating the availability of six types of support units, including military police, medical brigades, engineers, and logistics battalions, for potential deployment to the US Southern Command within 90 to 120 days. While internal Army communications do not explicitly name Cuba, multiple US officials told CBS News that the request is part of ongoing military planning focused on the island. The Pentagon maintains that no military operation has been ordered and that such preparations are routine.

This military assessment coincides with intensified pressure from the Trump administration, which includes an oil blockade, financial sanctions, and fuel supply restrictions. During a September 22 address to the UN General Assembly, President Donald Trump characterized Cuba as a "failed state" and predicted that its government "will fall."

Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel responded by vowing to defend national sovereignty and accusing Washington of conducting "economic warfare." Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez further accused the US of imposing a financial blockade and oil siege. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that conditions in Cuba will not improve without leadership changes.