US Military Readies Cuba Contingency Plan Within 120 Days, September 26

The U.S. Army Reserve is assessing whether it can deploy military police, medical personnel, and logistics units to U.S. Southern Command within 90 to 120 days, according to an internal Army message reviewed by CBS News on September 25. The document does not name Cuba, but multiple U.S. officials told CBS News the planning is aimed at the island. No deployment orders have been issued, and the Pentagon has not disclosed whether President Trump or military leadership has authorized any operation.

What the internal memo requests

The Army Reserve message seeks feedback on six types of military formations that could operate under U.S. Southern Command by late December 2026. These include a combat sustainment support battalion for logistics like transportation and fuel, an engineer battalion, an expeditionary sustainment command to oversee theater logistics, a medical brigade, a forward surgical detachment for trauma care, and a military police brigade. The document does not specify how many troops would be needed, where they would be sent, or what operation they would support.

Trump administration pressure on Cuba intensifies

The military planning follows nine months of intense economic pressure on Havana under President Trump’s second term. Trump called Cuba “an absolutely failed state” at the United Nations this week, prompting a Cuban delegation walkout. In March, Trump said he expects to have “the honor of taking Cuba in some form.” The Trump administration has imposed heavy sanctions on Cuban entities and officials and maintains a naval blockade to force political reforms.

Pentagon cites operational security, declines details

U.S. Southern Command, which oversees military operations in Central America, South America, and the Caribbean, declined to comment on potential movements or deployment timelines. A spokesperson told CBS News that “due to operational security concerns, we do not disclose details or comment on US operational movements or potential deployment timelines.” The command said it continuously assesses military requirements across its area of responsibility. U.S. forces have already conducted reconnaissance operations on the seafloor and naval approaches around Cuba.

Earlier military planning included 101st Airborne option

U.S. officials previously examined options that included an Army-led air assault by the 101st Airborne Division, though those plans stalled. The current planning is part of the Trump administration’s broader “Donroe Doctrine,” which authorizes lethal strikes on suspected criminal targets at sea and expands joint operations with regional partners like Ecuador. The doctrine represents a more assertive U.S. posture in the Western Hemisphere.

Final Thoughts

The Army Reserve memo signals serious contingency planning for Cuba, though no deployment orders have been issued and the Pentagon remains silent on authorization. Investors and policy watchers should monitor whether Trump escalates beyond economic pressure to military action.

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