Top US commander meets Cuban military officials amid rising tensions

 A top US military commander met Cuban military officials near Guantanamo Bay, a rare high-level engagement amid escalating US pressure on Cuba. The meeting occurred as the Trump administration intensified sanctions and rhetoric, despite ongoing, albeit limited, diplomatic contacts. A new contingent of US sailors and Marines is also deploying to the Caribbean. A top US military commander met Cuban military officials near Guantanamo Bay, a rare high-level engagement amid escalating US pressure on Cuba. The meeting occurred as the Trump administration intensified sanctions and rhetoric, despite ongoing, albeit limited, diplomatic contacts. A new contingent of US sailors and Marines is also deploying to the Caribbean.