Forcing change in Cuba could plunge U.S. into new crisis [View All]

[struggle4progress]

By Dennis R. Gordon

... Cuba and Cuban-Americans hold a special place in our history stretching from the Spanish-American War through the threat of nuclear holocaust with the missile crisis of 1962, to the unique and controversial role Florida plays in our domestic politics today. America's self-proclaimed right to shape the course of Cuban history has no basis in international law and reflects an interventionist bent that fosters unease among our neighbors in the hemisphere ...

According to the State Department, any military aid to anti-government forces would come only after a request from Cubans themselves. Anyone familiar with Latin American history, of course, knows that a ``transitional government'' might well be a couple of people on an isolated beach with a cell phone, followed by the dispatch of a U.S. air and sea armada to defend the new government. To make matters worse, the Miami Cubans may try to force President Bush's hand by launching a pre-emptive attack, leaving no alternative but to provide cover or see hundreds, if not thousands, of U.S. citizens gunned down by Castro's navy and air force.

The American people need to know that forcing change in Cuba is fraught with risk. Although major military action might be brief, a protracted guerrilla war could follow. While dissidents take brave public stands and others gripe in private, nationalism continues to unite the Cuban people. Millions are proud of their nation's accomplishments in health care and services to the poor. Put simply, no one can guarantee that a transitional government led by Miami exiles would be welcomed with open arms. Many people in Cuba blame the extremists in Miami for the continuation of crippling U.S. sanctions that limit family visits and remittances of much-needed cash ...

http://www.mercurynews.com/mld/mercurynews/news/opinion/15178722.htm

Apparently pushing the idea that "we can get what we want" through economic integration without overt military involvement ...