Cuban authorities have confirmed the lethal outcome of a maritime security incident involving armed exiles from Florida, resulting in four fatalities and six injuries. The confrontation occurred when a speedboat registered in Florida breached Cuban territorial waters and initiated gunfire against a Cuban patrol unit on Wednesday.
According to Cuba’s Ministry of the Interior, the assailants were heavily armed opponents of the Cuban government, some of whom were previously sought for plotting terrorist attacks. The group was equipped with automatic weapons, handguns, improvised explosives, bulletproof vests, and telescopic sights. An additional suspect has been detained in Cuba for alleged involvement in the planned infiltration.
The wounded, including the Cuban patrol commander, received medical evacuation and care. Cuban officials stated that interrogations revealed the group’s intention to execute a terrorist infiltration mission.
Cuba’s embassy in Paramaribo condemned the incident as a terrorist attack and urged the United States to curb anti-Cuban group activities within its borders. An official embassy statement emphasized that “this assault not only violates Cuban sovereignty but also jeopardizes regional peace and stability.”
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio denied any American government involvement, confirming that no US officials participated in the operation. He announced that the US would conduct an independent investigation to determine the exact circumstances, noting the unusual nature of open-sea shootings.
This incident follows heightened tensions stemming from US oil sanctions against Cuba and references the recent US arrest of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, a key Cuban ally. Rubio reiterated calls for substantial changes in Cuba’s governance.
Historical context reveals Miami as a traditional hub for anti-Castro activities, including the failed 1961 CIA-backed Bay of Pigs invasion. While such operations have diminished in frequency, recent energy crises and political tensions appear to have reinvigorated opposition efforts.
Authorities have identified six suspects detained from the speedboat, including two previously known for alleged terrorist plots against Cuba: Amijail Sanchez Gonzalez and Leordan Enrique Cruz Gomez. The death of Michel Ortega Casanova has been confirmed, while three other deceased individuals remain unidentified. Cuban national Duniel Hernandez Santos was arrested for complicity.
The speedboat had approached within one nautical mile of Falcones Cay on Cuba’s northern coast when intercepted by a five-member border patrol. The exchange of fire resulted in injuries to the patrol commander.
Florida politicians have called for independent investigations, with Attorney General James Uthmeier coordinating with federal and local authorities. Congressman Carlos Gimenez, representing southern Florida, advocated for federal scrutiny by the State and Defense Departments, emphasizing the need to identify any American citizens or legal residents among the casualties.
International human rights organizations demand transparency and independent investigation, warning of potential escalation in an already volatile region. The Organization of American States (OAS) urged restraint and dialogue, while the United Nations emphasized violence prevention and peaceful resolution. The European Union called for calm and adherence to international law, with regional allies Venezuela and Nicaragua expressing solidarity with Havana. The US maintains its position of intensified sanctions and continued pressure on the Cuban government.