Cuba's Leadership Fears U.S. Operation Similar to Venezuela...

The head of Cuba's Personal Security Directorate, Brigadier General Emir Mesa Corona, has publicly warned of a potential enemy operation to capture or assassinate regime leaders. This warning echoes scenarios like the one involving Nicolás Maduro in Venezuela.

Qué pasó

General Mesa Corona spoke during a ceremony marking the 65th anniversary of the Personal Security Directorate in Havana. He identified a direct operation against the country's top leaders as a significant threat. The general urged military and security forces to enhance their preparedness and coordination for such an eventuality.

Dónde y cuándo

The warning was issued on Sunday, September 6, 2025, in Havana, during a ceremony attended by Miguel Díaz-Canel, Raúl Castro, and other high-ranking officials from the Revolutionary Armed Forces and the Ministry of the Interior. The context was the 65th anniversary of the Personal Security Directorate.

Por qué es importante

This statement is significant given Mesa Corona's role in protecting Cuba's top officials. It aligns with publicly reported increases in security measures around Díaz-Canel and Raúl Castro. The Cuban regime's concern is heightened by statements from Washington regarding potential U.S. actions.

Qué dicen las partes

U.S. Secretary of War, Pete Hegseth, has previously discussed the possibility of operations targeting Díaz-Canel. While not confirming specific missions, he stated the U.S. has options for various scenarios. In August, Hegseth reiterated that "all options are on the table," including military ones, and emphasized the Trump administration's calls for Havana to address Washington's position. U.S. media had also reported on contingency planning for Cuba, including large-scale military operations, though officials clarified these did not signify a presidential decision to act.

Qué viene ahora

The specific concern highlighted by Mesa Corona focuses on the risk of an operation designed to reach and remove top leaders through capture or elimination, rather than a conventional invasion. The precedent set by the events involving Maduro in Venezuela appears to have intensified concerns within Cuba's security apparatus, making the protection of the ruling elite a top priority.