A deadly confrontation between Cuban coast guard forces and individuals aboard a Florida-registered boat has left four people dead and six wounded, according to the U.S. Department of State. The incident, which occurred Wednesday near Cayo Falcones in central Cuba, involved a vessel identified as having been reported stolen in Florida, with the owner alleging an employee was responsible.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened on Wednesday?
A lancha rápida with a Florida registration was intercepted by Cuban coast guard forces. A shooting ensued, resulting in four deaths and six injuries. The boat had been reported stolen earlier that day in the Florida Keys.
What is the U.S. Response to the incident?
The U.S. Department of State has confirmed that at least one U.S. Citizen was among those killed, and another was injured. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated the U.S. Will independently verify the information and “respond appropriately” once the facts are clear. He also denied any U.S. Involvement in the incident.
What does Cuba allege about the people on board the vessel?
Cuba claims the individuals on the boat were attempting a “terrorist” infiltration and were armed. Cuban officials identified the deceased as Pavel Alling Peña, Michael Ortega Casanova, Ledián Padrón Guevara, and Hector Duani Cruz Correa. The survivors, currently detained, are Cristian Ernesto Acosta Guevara, Conrado Galindo Sariol, José Manuel Rodríguez Castelló, Leordan Enrique Cruz Gómez, Amijail Sánchez González, and Roberto Álvarez Ávila.
According to the Cuban government, the vessel was detected within Cuban territorial waters, and gunfire was initiated by those on board after coast guard forces approached. The U.S. Has expressed interest in speaking with the survivors to ascertain the details of the event. The Cuban government has stated it has been in communication with U.S. Counterparts, including the Department of State and Coast Guard, and is willing to share information.
Cuba also claims to have previously alerted the U.S. To potential “terrorist” plots originating from individuals and groups within the United States, but alleges those warnings were not heeded. Cuban officials state that Amijail Sánchez González and Leordan Cruz Gómez were previously identified as potential terrorism suspects.
The circumstances surrounding the incident remain unclear, and investigations are underway in both Cuba and the United States.
Given the ongoing investigations and conflicting accounts, what steps might be taken to de-escalate tensions and ensure a more transparent understanding of events?
