German Chancellor Friedrich Merz (CDU) has firmly rejected threats from the United States regarding a possible intervention in Cuba. Speaking at a press conference on Monday alongside Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, Merz made his position clear on the escalating situation.
"There is no discernible basis for an intervention in Cuba," Merz stated. "Despite all the problems this country faces domestically with the communist regime, there is no recognizable threat emanating from Cuba to third countries outside of Cuba."
The Chancellor urged restraint and emphasized the importance of peaceful resolution. "I can only give urgent advice that if there are conflicts, if there are efforts to bring about changes with regard to freedom of movement, open borders and human rights, to seek this path through diplomatic means and peacefully, and not to start a new conflict in the world without necessity, which would likewise only create additional problems," Merz continued.
Merz clarified Germany's position on military capabilities and their proper use. He said he is among those who stand for a "strong own defense capability." However, he emphasized that "defense capability does not mean having the right to intervene militarily in other states if political systems there do not correspond to what others imagine." The Chancellor added that he believes there is "at the moment" no reason for the United States "to begin such an action."
The US government under President Donald Trump has recently increased pressure on communist-ruled Cuba, repeatedly demanding economic and political reforms on the Caribbean island. Trump has publicly considered "taking over" Cuba. In January, the US military captured Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and brought him to the United States, marking a significant escalation in regional tensions.
Merz's comments represent a clear diplomatic stance from Germany, advocating for peaceful conflict resolution and international law over unilateral military intervention.
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