Cuba: Dependent Interventionism

Abstract

Dunér, B. Cuba: Dependent Interventionism. Cooperation and Conflict, XXII, 1987, 35-47.

Cuban military internationalism has been of great concern to many a Western observer and has also been rather surprising, insofar as it contradicts the theory of International Politics which ascribes a very limited international role to countries of Cuba's size. Some find the explanation of its prolific military involvement abroad in Cuban subordination, Havanna acting at Moscow's behest. While it is evident that the Soviet connection is a key factor, Cuba's relation to the Soviet Union is quite different and far more complex. What is it? Cuba's international behaviour is usually regarded as a case of communist foreign policy. In this article the dimension of Cuba as a developing country is incorporated as well. The analysis is pursued in terms of the categories of resources and national interests, supplemented by that of ideological interests. The answer to the question is given in terms of dependence. Its exact nature and extent are not known but several conclusions can be drawn. Cuba has been dependent on the Soviet Union in the implementation of intervention (and in this respect there has even been interdependence). There may have been financial dependence, too. The most inter esting, however, is Cuban security dependence, implying material reliance on the Soviets as well as their protection underwriting. Whereas dependence on the USSR has made Cuban activism possible, one cannot rule out the possibility that by turning its back on Cuba the Soviet Union has thwarted Cuba's plans in some instances.

It is possible to analyze the efficiency of a revolutionary line by the way the enemies of the revolution react to it. Fidel Castro, Granma 28 January 1966

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