Cuba has condemned an armed group’s infiltration attempt from the United States, following a deadly encounter off its northern coast. Four individuals were killed, and six others were injured when a Florida-registered boat was intercepted by Cuban authorities. This incident occurred against a backdrop of escalating tensions between Havana and Washington.
Cuba’s Response to the Incident
The Cuban Interior Ministry reported that the boat contained individuals armed with assault rifles, handguns, and homemade explosives, including Molotov cocktails. The occupants were described as Cubans residing in the U.S., many with criminal and violent backgrounds. The Ministry provided names of the injured and deceased, emphasizing a serious security threat.
- Four killed, six injured during the interception.
- Boat intercepted near Cayo Falcones in Villa Clara province.
- Weapons seized included assault rifles and Molotov cocktails.
U.S. Investigation and Diplomatic Reactions
In response to the shooting, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced that an investigation was underway. He emphasized that the U.S. does not condone the actions taken and distanced the government from any involvement.
With meetings in Saint Kitts and Nevis, Rubio described Cuba as an “illegitimate regime” and highlighted the ongoing U.S. economic pressures aimed at instigating change on the island. This remark reflects a long-standing U.S. policy of seeking to influence the Cuban government through restrictive measures.
Historical Context and Ongoing Tensions
The incident unfolds amid heightened tensions, largely due to an oil embargo imposed during the Trump administration. This embargo has aggravated Cuba’s long-standing humanitarian crisis, which has persisted for years.
In a statement, Rubio indicated that the U.S. would “react accordingly” as more information comes to light. He noted that some of the individuals aboard the boat were already on Cuba’s national watch list for criminal investigations.
Comments from Florida Officials
Florida officials have voiced strong reactions to the incident. James Uthmeier, the Florida Attorney General, announced an immediate investigation into the shooting. Congressman Carlos Gimenez called for accountability for what he labeled a massacre, while Vice President J.D. Vance asserted that the U.S. was closely monitoring the situation.
With an estimated 9.6 million residents, Cuba remains a focal point of U.S. foreign policy due to its proximity—only 150 kilometers from Florida. The U.S. has maintained a strict embargo on Cuban trade since 1960 as part of its longstanding position against the Cuban government.
