The head of the United States Southern Command (SOUTHCOM), General Francis L. Donovan, stated this Thursday that the United States has contingency plans in place to manage a mass exodus and a humanitarian crisis in Cuba.
"We have an order to support the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Whether by sea or land, primarily at the Naval Base in Guantanamo where we will set up camp to deal with those migrants," said Donovan during an appearance before the Senate Armed Services Committee.
At this point, it is worth noting that Cuba is going through a severe economic and energy crisis that some analysts describe as worse than the "Special Period", exacerbated by U.S. energy pressure.
Similarly, regarding the rhetoric around a possible intervention, with mentions of liberating the island, General denied any intention of military action, while also acknowledging that the United States maintains contingency plans for various scenarios as part of its global strategy, along with a "national emergency" declared by the Trump administration, according to media reports.
Donovan also emphasized that another of his missions is to ensure the security of the United States Embassy in Havana, in constant coordination with the diplomatic staff.
According to the explanation, Southern Command maintains frequent communication with the diplomatic mission and has recently received the chief of mission in Cuba, Mike Hammer.
The statements come amid increasing political pressure on the Cuban regime, characterized by the economic crisis, prolonged blackouts, and a rise in protests across various parts of the country.
Although critical rhetoric from Washington towards Havana has increased, Donovan's words make it clear that, for now, military intervention is not on the table, although there is indeed preparation for possible scenarios arising from instability on the island.
Filed under: