The Cuban National Defense Council met on Saturday and reviewed and approved plans and measures for the country's transition to a 'state of war', according to a statement released on the official website of the Cuban Presidential Palace.
The meeting was held under the purpose of enhancing and improving the combat readiness and coordination capabilities of command organizations at all levels and relevant personnel, and served as "part of the country's preparation under the strategic concept of the War of the Entire People", said the statement.
It comes amid heightened tensions between Cuba and the United States after the U.S. launched large-scale military strikes against Venezuela earlier this month, during which it forcibly seized Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his wife before taking them to New York.
The U.S. attack on Venezuela led to the deaths of 32 Cuban soldiers, whose remains were flown back to the country on Thursday. Thousands gathered on the streets of Havana on Friday to pay their respects to the fallen soldiers and protest against the U.S. military actions which have received widespread condemnation worldwide.
U.S. President Donald Trump has indicated that Cuba could become the next target following the U.S. intervention in Venezuela, and in a social media post urged Cuba to "make a deal" or face consequences, and said that the flow of Venezuelan oil and money to Cuba would be stopped.
Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel has said Cuba will not initiate attacks or threats against any country, but is prepared to defend every inch of its territory.
Cuba approves plans on transition to 'state of war' amid US tensions
Cuba approves plans on transition to 'state of war' amid US tensions
