Four people were killed and six injured in an incident off Cuba’s coast this week. The collision occurred when a speedboat armed with weapons from Florida entered Cuban waters, sparking a confrontation between Cuban coastguards and its occupants. The ministry of interior stated that the five Border Guard Troops officers who approached for identification began shooting back after five members of the Speedboat Team opened fire.
Commander of the Cuban boat was wounded in the skirmish. The statement provided no further details on the speedboat’s passengers or their intentions, leading to speculation over the event’s cause and origin.
Florida Representative María Elvira Salazar expressed concern over the unfolding situation, describing it as a “serious matter.” Carlos Gimenez, born in Cuba, criticized the use of lethal force against individuals aboard an American-registered vessel, viewing it as a grave breach of protocol. The Cuban government maintained its commitment to safeguarding its territorial waters, amid heightened tensions with the U.S.
This escalation follows recent sanctions and tariffs from President Trump on Cuba following Maduro’s capture operation.