Cuban forces reportedly killed four individuals and injured six others aboard a Florida-based speedboat that entered Cuban waters and opened fire on a patrol unit. This incident, occurring amid rising tensions with the U.S., prompted Cuba’s Interior Ministry to announce an investigation into the events. The wounded were evacuated for medical care, and the Cuban patrol commander was also injured.
The U.S. has been blocking oil shipments to Cuba, intensifying pressure on its government. Following the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, a significant ally for Cuba, U.S. officials are scrutinizing the incident. Senator Marco Rubio stated that the U.S. would conduct its own verification, clarifying that the incident was not a U.S. operation.
Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier has initiated a separate investigation, expressing distrust in the Cuban government’s account. U.S. Representative Carlos Gimenez called for a federal inquiry, raising concerns about the use of lethal force against a U.S.-registered vessel. The speedboat was reportedly within one nautical mile of Falcones Cay when it was approached by Cuban border patrol, leading to the exchange of gunfire.
Cuba reaffirmed its commitment to protecting its territorial waters, emphasizing national defense as crucial for its sovereignty. The U.S. State Department has not yet commented on the situation.
Share it now
