The Cuban Coast Guard ship. Archive photo by Yamil Lage / AFP.
According to information provided by the Cuban Ministry of the Interior, the incident occurred when a speedboat flying the flag of the U.S. state of Florida entered Cuban territorial waters. Border forces that arrived at the vessel for inspection came under fire from those on board, resulting in the commander of the Cuban boat being injured. In response, they opened fire.
Events near Cuba
Cuban authorities reported that the boat was spotted near Cayo Falcones, located in Villa Clara province. Four people on the boat were killed as a result of the shooting, and six others were taken to medical facilities with injuries. The nationality of the victims has not yet been confirmed.The events occurred approximately 160 kilometers off the coast of Florida.
U.S. Response
U.S. authorities have begun an investigation into the circumstances of this incident. Politicians from Florida are demanding to determine whether any U.S. citizens were among the deceased or injured, as well as to assess the legality of the use of force.According to CNN, the U.S. State Department has requested additional information from the Cuban side.
Cuban authorities confirmed that they are continuing the investigation and emphasize their determination to protect their territorial waters and state sovereignty.
