Ankara: Cuba's top diplomat in Washington has declared that the nation is preparing to defend itself against any potential military action from the United States. Ambassador Lianys Torres Rivera, in an interview with The Hill news website, emphasized that the preparations are defensive in nature and not intended to initiate any offensive actions against US territory or its people. "We are preparing to defend ourselves," Torres Rivera stated, clarifying that Cuba does not desire conflict.

According to Anadolu Agency, Torres Rivera expressed concerns about the repercussions of any military invasion, warning that it could result in a "bloodbath." She stressed that Cuba does not wish for the loss of life, neither of Cubans nor American soldiers. Her comments come amid a backdrop of significant challenges for Cuba, including severe fuel shortages and prolonged blackouts, which have been exacerbated by a US blockade.

The ambassador reaffirmed Cuba's stance on its "sovereignty, independence, and right to self-determination," making it clear that these principles remain non-negotiable. Despite the current tensions, Torres Rivera insisted that Havana does not pose a threat to the United States. "We are a small island that wants only to be left alone to decide our future in the way that Cubans want," she stated.

The energy crisis in Cuba has worsened following the US's removal of Nicolas Maduro from power in Venezuela, a key supplier of oil to Cuba, along with threats of tariffs on any country providing oil to Cuba.