Throughout history, empires have absolutely sent troops when their colonies started clamoring for independence. Now, if Canada wanted to get rid of Charles as head of state and leave the Commonwealth, would the UK send troops? Unlikely, as the cost of the war is very very unlikely to outweigh the benefit of maintaining largely formal control.
But, if Puerto Rico wanted to become an independent nation, do you imagine the USA would let it without trying to quash the "rebellion" with both economic and military might?
> But, if Puerto Rico wanted to become an independent nation, do you imagine the USA would let it without trying to quash the "rebellion" with both economic and military might?
The US did it for the Federated States of Micronesia, Palau, and the Marshall Islands in recent-ish years, why wouldn't they do it for Puerto Rico if they wanted to?
I can't easily find any mentions of the US using military force to compel Palau to submit. It's independent since 1946 or so, and has a comprehensive treaty with the US. Can you please give some keywords or dates of the enforcement actions you allege to?
GP gave Palau, Micronesia, and the Marshall Islands as examples of territories the US allowed to become independent without trying to crush them economically or militarily, so your question seems... misplaced.
But, if Puerto Rico wanted to become an independent nation, do you imagine the USA would let it without trying to quash the "rebellion" with both economic and military might?