China has called on the United States to stop threatening Cuba with military force and end its economic restrictions on the island, following reports that the Pentagon has examined options for a possible operation.
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said Washington should “immediately stop threatening Cuba with force” and end all unilateral sanctions and what Beijing describes as a blockade, according to the state-run Global Times.
Mao said China would continue supporting Cuba in defending its national sovereignty and opposing external intervention. The statement follows similar warnings issued by Beijing earlier in July, when Chinese officials accused the United States of intensifying economic and military pressure on Havana.
Pentagon examined military scenarios
China’s response came after CBS News reported that senior US defence officials had reviewed several possible military scenarios involving Cuba.
One option reportedly examined an airborne operation led by the US Army’s 101st Airborne Division. However, the officials cited by CBS stressed that no military action was imminent and that no operation had been approved.
Contingency planning is a routine Pentagon responsibility and does not necessarily indicate that the White House intends to carry out an operation. The Pentagon has not publicly confirmed plans for military action against Cuba.
The distinction is important: US officials have reportedly considered potential scenarios, but there is currently no verified evidence that Washington has decided to attack the island.
Pressure on Havana continues
The reports have emerged as the Trump administration increases political and economic pressure on the Cuban government.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said on July 23 that Cuba would need to make difficult changes to secure a better future. Washington argues that the island’s economic crisis is primarily the result of the Cuban government’s political and economic system.
Cuban officials reject that position and say US restrictions have deepened shortages of fuel, electricity, food and medicine.
Havana and Beijing describe the measures as a “blockade,” while Washington officially refers to them as an embargo and targeted sanctions. China has repeatedly urged the United States to remove the restrictions, arguing that they violate Cuba’s sovereignty and its right to economic development.
China’s latest statement therefore reflects both its longstanding support for Havana and growing concern over reports that US military options are again being discussed. For now, however, the dispute remains one of diplomatic warnings, economic pressure and unconfirmed military planning rather than an announced operation.