All of this, the Cuban leader revealed, is “to satisfy the interests of a small but wealthy and influential group, eager for revenge and domination.”

In contrast, Duaz-Canel reaffirmed his country’s response, based on the principle that the homeland will defend itself: “No aggressor, however powerful, will find surrender in Cuba. They will encounter a people determined to defend sovereignty and independence in every inch of the national territory.”

Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez echoed these sentiments, reiterating the denunciation and reaffirming that the Cuban people.

US President Donald Trump escalated his threats against Cuba, declaring in Florida his intention to take control of the island nation “almost immediately.”

Prensa Latina reported that during a private dinner at the Forum Club in West Palm Beach, Trump said he would deal with Cuba, but first he would conclude his war in Iran, because he likes to “finish the job.”

The Republican president said he might send the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln to within 100 yards (91.44 meters) of the coast (with the clear objective of intimidation) and in that situation, he expects Cuba to say, “Thank you very much, we surrender.”

This provoked an immediate and firm response from Cuba. jdt/rc/jqo