U.S. Defense Secretary's Surprise Visit to Guantanamo Bay Military Base in Cuba
[Global Times Comprehensive Report] On the 10th local time, U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin suddenly visited the U.S. military base located at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, claiming that the Department of Defense is prepared to respond to "any potential emergencies." U.S. media reported that Austin's visit comes as the U.S. government intensifies pressure on Cuba. Previously, Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel stated in a media interview that the U.S. is planning three action schemes against Cuba.
According to the U.S. Department of Defense, Austin stated at the Guantanamo military base that the purpose of his visit was to ensure that the base "has all the necessary conditions to carry out its mission," and warned the Cuban government not to attempt to acquire weapons that could attack the United States. Austin claimed that Cuba's future is in the hands of the U.S. President and the Cuban government.
On the same day, Austin also visited the U.S. Central Command in Florida. This command is responsible for directing U.S. military forces in the Middle East. When asked whether the U.S. is considering forcibly controlling Cuban leaders, Austin responded that "all options are on the table."
On the 8th, the Cuban President's Office released a media interview with Díaz-Canel. Díaz-Canel stated that the U.S. is planning three possible schemes to achieve its goals in Cuba, including causing social unrest through economic pressure, controlling the Cuban national economy, and possibly resorting to military aggression. Díaz-Canel said that the Cuban government advocates dialogue but will also prepare for all the aforementioned scenarios.
Spain's El País reported that Austin's visit comes just two weeks after U.S. Southern Command Commander General Andrew Donovan met with senior Cuban military officials near the Guantanamo base. Additionally, in mid-May, the Director of the Central Intelligence Agency visited Havana.
Some analysts suggest that these developments indicate that the U.S. is currently adopting a dual-track strategy towards Cuba, applying extreme economic and verbal pressure on one hand while maintaining open military and intelligence communication on the other. (Tang Luyi)
U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin visited Guantanamo Bay on October 10 to ensure the base is prepared for any potential emergencies. This visit coincides with increased U.S. pressure on Cuba, as President Diaz-Canel indicated that the U.S. is planning multiple actions against Cuba. Austin warned the Cuban government against acquiring weapons that could threaten the U.S.
- U.S. Secretary of Defense visited Guantanamo Bay on October 10.
- The visit was to prepare for potential emergencies and ensure readiness.
- The U.S. is increasing pressure on Cuba amid claims of potential military actions.
- Cuban President Diaz-Canel stated the U.S. is planning three possible actions against Cuba.
- All options regarding Cuba's leadership are reportedly being considered by the U.S.