Cuba has accused 10 people aboard a US-registered speedboat of planning “an infiltration with terrorist aims” after the vessel was intercepted off its northern coast on Wednesday. According to the Cuban interior ministry, four people were killed and six injured in a firefight, with authorities claiming those aboard the Florida-registered boat fired first.
The boat was intercepted about one nautical mile off Cayo Falcones, and the Cuban commander on board was reportedly injured in the clash. Cuban authorities have identified one of the deceased and all six survivors, who were evacuated and received medical care.
Officials said all 10 on the speedboat were Cuban nationals residing in the US. An 11th person was arrested and allegedly admitted involvement in the plot. Most individuals on board reportedly had prior criminal or violent records. Weapons, including handguns, assault rifles, improvised explosive devices, and tactical gear, were recovered.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio described the incident as “highly unusual” and said Washington would independently verify the details rather than rely solely on Cuba’s account. Rubio, speaking from Saint Kitts and Nevis during meetings with Caribbean leaders, confirmed no US government personnel were on the vessel.
The confrontation occurs amid rising tensions between the two countries, following last month’s US seizure of Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro and restrictions on oil shipments to Cuba. Rubio, whose family emigrated from Cuba, criticized the Communist government, calling for reforms to expand economic and political freedoms.
The incident echoes a historical event nearly 30 years ago, when Cuban forces shot down two planes belonging to the US-based group Brothers to the Rescue, killing four people.
In the context of ongoing economic pressures, including severe oil shortages exacerbated by US sanctions, the Cuban interior ministry emphasized its determination to protect territorial waters and sovereignty. Meanwhile, the US Treasury recently eased some small private-sector transactions, including oil sales for commercial and humanitarian purposes, signaling limited relief amid heightened tensions.
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