Ernesto Soberón Guzmán has declared that Cuba is fully prepared to defend itself if attacked, as tensions with the United States continue to intensify following months of an oil blockade and threats of political intervention.
Speaking during a media appearance, Guzmán dismissed any suggestion that Cuba would yield under pressure. He emphasized that resilience, resistance, and the defense of sovereignty remain core principles of the Cuban people, rejecting notions of surrender or collapse.
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The remarks come days after Donald Trump signed an executive order imposing additional sanctions targeting Cuban officials, particularly those linked to sectors such as energy, defense, finance, and national security. In response, Bruno Rodríguez Parrilla condemned the measures as “illegal” and “abusive,” accusing Washington of escalating coercive tactics and violating international law.
Cuban officials argue that such actions, combined with broader geopolitical strategies, are contributing to a deepening global crisis while placing Cuba directly in the crosshairs of U.S. policy. Guzmán’s statements also align with longstanding calls from Havana for respect, sovereignty, and non-interference in its internal affairs.
The situation has been further complicated by comments from Marco Rubio, who has advocated for political change in Cuba and tied the longstanding U.S. embargo to governance reforms on the island. Rubio has argued that Cuba’s economic challenges stem from systemic dysfunction, noting the country’s historical reliance on external subsidies.
Despite the strained relations, Guzmán indicated that Cuba remains open to dialogue with the United States, provided it is conducted on equal terms and grounded in mutual respect. He reiterated that any engagement must uphold Cuba’s independence and reject external interference.
Meanwhile, ongoing energy shortages, worsened by sanctions, continue to disrupt daily life across the island, including healthcare services for vulnerable populations. In response to the crisis, countries such as Mexico have stepped in with humanitarian aid shipments, and Cuba has signaled its willingness to accept further assistance, including from the United States.
Referencing recent nationwide demonstrations, Guzmán noted that millions of Cubans participated in May Day events, sending a unified message: the country is prepared to pursue dialogue, but equally ready to defend its sovereignty if necessary.
