US prepares troops for possible operation in Cuba

US Prepares Troops for Possible Operation in Cuba

The US Army is considering the possibility of providing the Armed Forces' Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) with military police units, medical personnel, and logistical services within the next 90–120 days.

According to CBS News sources, these planned measures are intended to prepare for possible operations regarding Cuba.

According to an internal document of the US Army Reserve Command, subordinate structures have been ordered to submit information on the readiness of 6 types of formations by September 25. Among them are a combat sustainment support battalion, an engineer battalion, an expeditionary sustainment command, a medical brigade, a forward surgical team, and a military police brigade. At the same time, Cuba is not explicitly named in the document itself, and no orders for the actual deployment of troops have been issued at this time.

A spokesperson for US Southern Command declined to discuss potential deployment timelines, citing operational security considerations, but emphasized that the command constantly coordinates to assess potential needs within its area of responsibility. The planning is taking place against the backdrop of economic pressure from the US administration on Cuba aimed at achieving political reforms.

Earlier in 2026, the US military conducted reconnaissance operations on the maritime shelf around the island, and air force components were placed on high alert. In the US intelligence community's 2026 threat assessment, Cuba is viewed as a platform that creates favorable conditions for Washington's geopolitical competitors, such as Russia, China, and Iran.