Cuba Neutralizes 4 on Florida Speedboat After Attack on Soldiers

Cuba’s government reported on a significant incident involving a Florida-registered speedboat that resulted in the deaths of four individuals. The boat, carrying ten armed Cubans from the United States, allegedly opened fire on Cuban soldiers on Wednesday. This escalation occurred in Cuban waters, approximately one mile northeast of Cayo Falcones.

Cuba Neutralizes Florida Speedboat After Attack on Soldiers

The Cuban military responded to the aggressive actions of the boat, which injured one Cuban officer before being fired upon. According to the Cuban government, the individuals on board had known criminal histories and were intent on committing acts of terrorism against the island.

Key Details Regarding the Incident

• Date: Recent events unfolded on a Wednesday.
• Location: Approximately one mile northeast of Cayo Falcones, near Cuba’s northern coastline.
• Victims: Four killed, six injured, including a Cuban military officer.
• Identified Suspects: Notable names include Amijail Sanchez Gonzalez and Leordan Enrique Cruz Gomez, both wanted by Cuban authorities.
• Arrested Individual: Duniel Hernandez Santos, who reportedly confessed to collaborating in the infiltration attempt.

The Cuban government has provided limited information about the events. It claims to have gathered intelligence from those arrested after the incident. Among the identified passengers are Conrado Galindo Sariol and Cristian Ernesto Acosta Guevara.

Response from U.S. Officials

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio commented on the situation, stating that the U.S. is conducting its own investigation to determine whether the casualties were American citizens or permanent residents. He noted the rarity of such confrontations in recent years and emphasized the need for independent verification of Cuba’s claims.

Rubio stated, “We will gather our own information to clarify the specifics of this incident.” U.S. Coast Guard and Department of Homeland Security are involved in this ongoing investigation.

Growing Tensions Between U.S. and Cuba

This recent shooting incident raises tensions between Cuba and the U.S., especially after a series of aggressive U.S. policies toward Cuba’s government. Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier has called for an investigation and condemned the Cuban government.

Incidents involving U.S.-flagged boats in Cuban waters are not uncommon, though direct assaults have not occurred recently. Many past confrontations have been related to smuggling or unauthorized attempts to reach the U.S.

The Cuban government maintains that it is safeguarding its sovereignty amidst the rising tensions. As investigations continue, clarity surrounding the motives and implications of this tragic event remains to be seen.