HAVANA – Cuban authorities reported a deadly confrontation with a vessel originating from Florida on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, alleging the boat was carrying armed individuals intending to carry out “terrorist” acts within the country. The incident, which occurred approximately 1.6 kilometers northeast of Cayo Falcones, resulted in the deaths of four people and injuries to six others, according to a statement from Cuba’s Ministry of the Interior (MININT). The U.S. Has initiated an investigation into the event, raising tensions between the two nations.
The Cuban government claims the vessel, identified as having Florida registration FL7726SH, was detected in Cuban territorial waters and ignored repeated orders to identify itself. According to MININT, those on board opened fire on Cuban border patrol troops, prompting a response that led to the casualties. The incident unfolds against a backdrop of increasing strain in U.S.-Cuba relations, marked by Washington’s tightening economic pressure on the island nation.
Authorities detailed that the vessel was equipped with “assault rifles, short firearms, artisanal explosive devices (Molotov cocktails), bulletproof vests, telescopic sights, and camouflage uniforms.” MININT further stated that all those involved were Cuban residents of the United States, many with “a known history of criminal and violent activity.” Two of the individuals on board were reportedly already subjects of criminal investigations in Cuba related to alleged “acts of terrorism,” according to the official statement.
The Florida Attorney General, James Uthmeier, has ordered an investigation into the incident, pledging to work with federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies. “I have directed the State Attorney’s Office to work with our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners to initiate an investigation,” Uthmeier said, adding, “Cuba cannot be trusted. We will do everything possible to hold the communists accountable,” according to El Tiempo.
Details of the Confrontation
According to the Cuban Ministry of the Interior, the incident began when a fast boat with a Florida registration was detected in Cuban waters. When a Cuban border patrol vessel approached to identify the boat, it allegedly came under fire from those on board, initiating an exchange of gunfire. As a result of the confrontation, four individuals were killed and six were injured, receiving medical attention, officials stated. A Cuban commander was also reportedly wounded during the exchange.
Cuban authorities have detained another individual who allegedly traveled from the United States to Cuba prior to the incident to facilitate the operation, and that person has reportedly confessed to their involvement. The investigation is ongoing, with Cuba reaffirming its commitment to protecting its territorial waters and national defense.
U.S. Response and Political Context
U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance stated the White House is monitoring the situation after being briefed by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who was attending the Community of Caribbean (CARICOM) summit in St. Kitts, and Nevis. “Hopefully it’s not as bad as we fear,” Vance said, without providing further details. Rubio indicated the U.S. Is investigating the incident, relying initially on information provided by the Cuban government. “As we gather more information, we will be prepared to respond accordingly,” he stated, confirming the incident did not involve U.S. Government personnel or a sanctioned operation. Yahoo News reported.
The confrontation occurs amid heightened tensions between the U.S. And Cuba, fueled by the tightening of Washington’s policies towards Havana and restrictions on energy supplies to the island. Cuban authorities have indicated that similar incidents involving fast boats from the U.S. Are often linked to human trafficking or smuggling, but noted that direct shootouts between law enforcement and boat occupants are unusual.
What Comes Next
The U.S. Investigation, led by the Florida Attorney General’s office in coordination with federal agencies, will be crucial in determining the facts surrounding the incident and informing the U.S. Response. The Cuban government has stated its commitment to a thorough investigation and the protection of its territorial waters. The incident is likely to further complicate the already strained relationship between Washington and Havana, potentially leading to further diplomatic repercussions. The outcome of the investigations and any subsequent actions will be closely watched by regional stakeholders and international observers.
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