The U.S. military is planning for a possible operation in Cuba in the event that U.S. President Donald Trump gives an order to intervene, USA Today reported on April 15, citing two unnamed sources. In response to a USA Today query, the Pentagon said it prepares for a range of contingencies to execute the president's orders.

The report reflects previous statements by the Trump administration, including Trump himself, stating that the U.S. military could target Cuba "next," following previous operations against Venezuela and Iran. The United States has prevented most fuel from arriving in Cuba since early January, though it did allow a Russian tanker to arrive on March 30. The Cuban and U.S. governments are negotiating a deal under which Cuba would commit to economic liberalization, the release of political prisoners and potential changes in leadership.