Youngster is protected by a million Cubans (4,3)

I believe the answer is:

lion cub

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'youngster' is the definition.
Although both the answer and definition are singular nouns, I cannot see how they can define each other.

'protected by a million cubans' is the wordplay.
'protected by' says the answer is hidden in the clue.
'LION-CUB' is hidden in the letters of 'million cubans'.

'is' is the link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for lion cub that I've seen before include "Young mauler" , "Elsa's offspring possibly (Born Free)" , "beastly prince?" , "Creature" , "Young pride member" .)

I've seen this clue in the Sydney Morning Herald.

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