Cuba Denies U.S. Drone Threat Claims Amid Rising Tensions

Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez has rejected accusations that Cuba is preparing military aggression against the United States, calling the allegations a “fraudulent case” designed to justify tougher economic sanctions and possible military intervention. His remarks came after an Axios report cited classified U.S. intelligence claiming Cuba had obtained more than 300 military drones.

According to the report, U.S. intelligence officials believe Havana discussed potential plans involving drone attacks targeting the U.S. naval base at Guantanamo Bay, American military ships, and Key West, Florida. Rodriguez did not directly address the drone allegations but insisted that Cuba “neither threatens nor desires war.” In a statement shared on social media, he said the country is prepared only to defend itself against external aggression under rights recognized by the United Nations Charter.

The latest dispute highlights rapidly growing tensions between the United States and Cuba under the Trump administration. A senior U.S. official told Axios that Washington views Cuba as an increasing security concern because of advancements in drone warfare and the reported presence of Iranian military advisers in Havana. Reuters said it could not independently verify the intelligence claims.

Relations between the two countries have worsened in recent weeks. Sources within the U.S. Department of Justice reportedly told Reuters they are preparing charges against former Cuban leader Raul Castro over Cuba’s 1996 downing of planes operated by the humanitarian organization Brothers to the Rescue. An indictment against the 94-year-old revolutionary figure would mark a major escalation in U.S. pressure on the communist-led island nation.

President Donald Trump has also intensified rhetoric toward Cuba after the January capture of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro. Trump previously warned that “Cuba is next,” fueling speculation about future U.S. actions in the region.

Amid the heightened tensions, CIA Director John Ratcliffe recently traveled to Havana for rare high-level talks with Cuban officials, including Raul Castro’s grandson, signaling ongoing behind-the-scenes diplomatic engagement despite the growing political conflict.