"In the current situation, it is possible that they will try to attack Cuba. We must prepare so that it is neither a surprise nor a defeat," Díaz-Canel said in an interview with Brazilian outlet Opera Mundi published on Wednesday.
The Cuban leader said the national defense doctrine known as the "war of all the people" remained in force, with every Cuban assigned a role and mission in defending the homeland.
He said authorities had taken steps to strengthen the island's defense system in response to growing external pressure and what he called a tightening US energy blockade.
Díaz-Canel said Cuba was open to dialogue with Washington, but only on the basis of mutual respect and without the imposition of views.
His remarks came after US President Donald Trump said on Friday that the United States could take military action against Cuba — the latest in a series of recent suggestions by Trump about a possible military operation against the island.
(jh/gs)
Source: PAP