English

Abstract

This essay argues that the U.S. Southern Command (SOUTHCOM), U.S. Northern Command (NORTHCOM) and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security did not oppose the reestablishment of diplomatic relations with Cuba because for several years U.S. military authorities and security forces had maintained close contact and interactions with their Cuban counterparts. Past experiences and possible scenarios are discussed regarding drug traffic and the future of Guantanamo Base. The paper concludes with an analysis of the possibility of SOUTHCOM‘s integration to NORTHCOM and of further cooperation between U.S. and Cuban security forces, leading to a more stable U.S. hegemony in the region.