Cuban border agents engaged in a deadly confrontation with a speedboat registered in Florida, resulting in the deaths of four individuals on February 25, 2026. According to the Cuban Ministry of the Interior, the incident occurred offshore from Cayo Falcones in the Villa Clara province, which is approximately 145 kilometers from Florida. The Cuban government claims that the crew of the speedboat fired first, provoking a violent exchange of gunfire.
The Cuban authorities reported that the crew of the boat, described as armed Cuban residents of the United States, opened fire on the Cuban personnel, injuring the commander of the Cuban vessel. In total, four individuals aboard the speedboat were killed, and six others were injured during the altercation. One of the deceased was identified as Michel Ortega Casanova, while the others remain unconfirmed.
Cuban officials stated that the passengers aboard the speedboat intended to carry out what they described as a terrorist infiltration on Cuban territory. They reportedly transported various weapons, including guns, Molotov cocktails, bulletproof vests, and camouflage uniforms. A seventh person, identified as Duniel Hernández Santos, was arrested within Cuba, accused of facilitating the infiltration.
The incident has sparked significant political backlash in the United States, particularly from Republican officials. Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier announced that an investigation would be conducted into the shooting. He emphasized on social media that “the Cuban government cannot be trusted,” asserting that efforts would be made to hold the Cuban regime accountable.
The Ministry of the Interior framed the actions of the border patrol as essential for defending Cuba’s national sovereignty. They reiterated their commitment to protecting territorial waters, stating, “National defense is a fundamental pillar of the Cuban State in safeguarding its sovereignty and ensuring stability in the region.”
Vice President JD Vance mentioned that the U.S. Is actively monitoring the situation and has been in discussions with Secretary of State Marco Rubio regarding the incident. Rubio, speaking from the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) conference in St. Kitts, noted the unusual nature of such shootouts occurring in open waters and asserted that the speedboat was not part of any U.S. Government operation.
Context of U.S.-Cuba Relations
The shootout occurs at a time when U.S.-Cuba relations are particularly strained. Recently, the U.S. Has taken a more aggressive stance in Latin America, notably with military actions against Venezuela. In early January, President Donald Trump authorized a military operation targeting Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, raising concerns about potential U.S. Intervention in Cuba as well.
In the aftermath of the Venezuela operation, U.S. Officials, including Rubio, expressed a desire for regime change in Cuba, stating that the current government poses a threat to regional stability. The U.S. Has also imposed an oil blockade on Cuba and cut off financial support from Venezuela, further isolating the island nation.
Cuba has a long history of asserting its territorial sovereignty, often responding with force to perceived violations. The Ministry of the Interior’s statements and actions reflect a continued commitment to defending the nation against what it characterizes as external threats.
Political Reactions
The shooting has drawn sharp criticism from Florida politicians, who are calling for accountability and answers regarding the identities and statuses of the victims. Congressman Carlos Gimenez, who has a personal history tied to Cuba, emphasized the need for U.S. Authorities to determine whether any victims were American citizens or legal residents. He condemned the Cuban regime, insisting it must be held accountable for its actions.
Senator Rick Scott echoed these sentiments, supporting the call for an investigation into the incident and denouncing the Cuban government. The U.S. Coast Guard has also been deployed to the area as part of the response to the event.
What’s Next?
As investigations continue, both Cuban and U.S. Authorities are expected to gather more information about the incident. The Cuban government has stated that it will continue to defend its territorial waters vigorously. Meanwhile, the U.S. Government is working to verify the details of the incident independently.
This confrontation may escalate diplomatic tensions further, as U.S. Officials strive to understand the full scope of the incident and its implications for U.S.-Cuba relations. The situation remains fluid, and developments are likely to unfold in the coming days.
Readers are encouraged to share their thoughts and perspectives on this incident and its implications for international relations in the comments section below.
