Cuba is preparing for the possibility of military conflict with the United States, a senior government official said Sunday, citing rising tensions and increased pressure from Washington.

Deputy Foreign Minister Carlos Fernández de Cossío said the country’s military is actively preparing for what he described as potential “military aggression,” while expressing hope that such a scenario does not occur. He said it would be unrealistic for Cuba not to consider the possibility, given the current geopolitical climate.

The warning follows a series of statements from President Donald Trump and senior U.S. officials signaling a tougher stance toward Cuba’s communist government. Cuban leaders have rejected any suggestion of regime change, insisting the country’s political system is not open to negotiation.

Tensions come as Cuba faces a deepening economic crisis, driven in part by energy shortages and fuel constraints. Recent nationwide power outages have strained critical infrastructure, including transportation, healthcare, and food distribution systems.

Cuban officials blame U.S. policies aimed at restricting fuel imports, describing them as a severe economic blockade. At the same time, the loss of support from Venezuela has further compounded the island’s difficulties.

Despite the escalating rhetoric, officials on both sides acknowledge that limited communication between the U.S. and Cuba is ongoing. Cuban leaders maintain they want to avoid conflict but say they are preparing for all scenarios as pressures continue to mount.