CBS: Pentagon reviews military intervention options for Cuba

The Pentagon is considering the possibility of an air assault operation in Cuba involving the US Army’s 101st Airborne Division.

According to sources familiar with the discussions, who spoke to CBS News on condition of anonymity to discuss national security matters, US officials recently held a briefing to examine possible military options related to Cuba. 

However, Pentagon representatives emphasised that the consultations do not mean a decision has been made to launch such an operation.

“Any operation against Cuba would confront the Pentagon with a significant problem because much of the U.S. military's attention and some of its most valuable offensive capabilities are already committed elsewhere,” the report added.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has previously stated that Washington prefers a diplomatic path toward political change in Cuba, but argued that the current Cuban authorities continue to reject reforms.

CBS noted that one of the factors cited in discussions about a potential military operation is Cuba’s acquisition of armed drones of unknown origin. 

At the same time, US intelligence agencies reportedly do not view Cuba as an independent strategic threat.

The broadcaster added that any operation against Cuba could pose challenges for the Pentagon, as a significant portion of US military attention and offensive capabilities is already committed to developments in the Middle East.

By Jeyhun Aghazada