U.S. Military Expands Planning for Potential Action Around Cuba
The U.S. military is continuing to prepare for a range of possible operations involving Cuba, according to an internal Army Reserve message reviewed by CBS News. The message asks military commands to assess whether they could provide police forces, medical personnel, engineers, and logistical support to U.S. Southern Command within the next four months.
Although Cuba is not mentioned directly in the document, several U.S. officials told CBS News that the request is part of ongoing military planning related to the island. The officials spoke anonymously because they were not authorized to discuss the plans publicly.
There is currently no indication that any units have received orders to deploy. Instead, the document appears to be part of the military's effort to lay the groundwork for possible future operations. Army Reserve headquarters is asking subordinate commands to report whether six types of military formations could become available within 90 to 120 days.
Among the units being considered are logistics and engineering formations. A combat sustainment battalion, for example, could coordinate transportation, maintenance, fuel, and supplies. An expeditionary sustainment command could oversee these activities across a larger area.
The Army Reserve is also examining the availability of medical and military police units. A medical brigade could coordinate medical operations, while a surgical unit could provide emergency treatment closer to U.S. forces. A military police brigade could provide security, detention, and law-enforcement support.
U.S. Southern Command declined to discuss specific operational plans, citing security concerns. The command said it regularly works with other parts of the military to assess possible requirements within its area of responsibility.
The latest planning follows other military activity involving Cuba. Earlier in 2026, U.S. forces reportedly conducted reconnaissance missions around the island's coastline and maritime approaches. Some U.S. airpower units were also placed on higher readiness and instructed to prepare personnel for a possible deployment. Those plans ultimately did not result in a deployment.
The Trump administration has also stepped up economic and political pressure on the Cuban government. In September, the United States imposed additional sanctions on Cuban organizations and officials, including entities connected to the country's military and nickel industry.
President Donald Trump has called for what he described as a fundamental political change in Cuba. He has also said that Secretary of State Marco Rubio is involved in negotiations with Havana while arguing that the United States should prevent foreign powers from establishing a stronger position in the region.
Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel has responded by saying that Cuba would be prepared to defend itself against a potential U.S. attack. He has also accused Washington of using economic pressure against the island.
The military preparations come after U.S. officials previously looked into several possible courses of action involving Cuba. In July, CBS News reported that military planners had examined options ranging from limited operations to a potential large-scale Army-led air assault. Officials emphasized at the time that these discussions did not mean the president or Pentagon had decided to launch an operation.
The situation remains uncertain. Military planning can involve preparing for a wide variety of scenarios without meaning that a particular operation will actually happen. For now, the United States continues to keep up economic and diplomatic pressure while also evaluating its military options.
The Cuban government, meanwhile, has continued to push back against U.S. pressure and has rejected Washington's accusations about its international relationships.
Phrasal Verbs
1. lay the groundwork for
Definition: To make preparations that will allow something to happen in the future.
Example: The government is laying the groundwork for possible emergency operations.
2. step up
Definition: To increase the amount or intensity of something.
Example: The government stepped up economic pressure on the country.
3. look into
Definition: To investigate or examine something carefully.
Example: Military officials looked into several possible responses to the situation.
4. keep up
Definition: To continue doing something at the same level or intensity.
Example: The government plans to keep up diplomatic pressure while negotiations continue.
5. push back against
Definition: To resist or oppose pressure, criticism, or an action.
Example: The government pushed back against accusations made by foreign officials.
Vocabulary Practice
Fill in the Blanks
Use the correct phrasal verb from the box.
lay the groundwork for | step up | look into | keep up | push back against
The military is attempting to __________ several possible future operations.
The government decided to __________ economic sanctions against the country.
Officials have begun to __________ possible diplomatic solutions.
The government plans to __________ pressure while negotiations continue.
Cuban officials have continued to __________ U.S. demands for political reforms.
Discussion Questions
Why might a military prepare for a possible operation even if no decision has been made to launch one?
What are some reasons a government might use economic pressure instead of military action?
If military preparations increase, how might that affect negotiations between the two countries?
What factors should governments consider before beginning a military operation?
How can military planning influence relations between neighboring countries?
If negotiations succeed, what could happen to the military preparations?
If tensions continue to increase, what effects could this have on other countries in the Caribbean?
Do you think military planning can sometimes prevent conflict, or can it also increase tensions? Explain your reasoning.
Comments