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US Defense Secretary Hegseth Discusses Military Options for Cuba's Leadership

KVIA•Thursday, June 11, 2026 at 2:35 PM•CNN Newsource

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AI Summary

During a recent visit to Central Command in Florida, U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth stated that all options, including military action, are on the table regarding the potential capture of Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel. He emphasized the increasing pressure on the Cuban regime and hinted at the Pentagon's readiness to respond to evolving situations. Hegseth refrained from confirming any specific plans akin to the operation against Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. His remarks come in the wake of new U.S. sanctions against Cuban officials and an ongoing energy crisis in Cuba, which has intensified calls for political and economic reforms. The Cuban government has firmly rejected any notion of external control over its future.

Key Details: • Hegseth's comments highlight the U.S. military's readiness to consider various options regarding Cuba. • New sanctions against Díaz-Canel and other Cuban officials were recently announced by the U.S. • The situation in Cuba is exacerbated by an ongoing energy crisis linked to U.S. sanctions. • Cuban representatives have firmly stated that the future of Cuba is solely for its people to decide.

military defense sanctions foreign-policy cuba

People & Organizations

Donald TrumpPete HegsethCubaUnited NationsMiguel Díaz-CanelGuantánamoU.S. Department of DefenseCentral CommandErnesto Soberón

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