CUBA has accused 10 people aboard a US-registered speedboat of planning an armed infiltration into the island.
Cuban border guards intercepted the Florida-registered vessel one nautical mile off Cayo Falcones on the country’s northern coast. Authorities said a firefight broke out after those on the boat allegedly opened fire first. Four people were killed, and six others were injured. A Cuban officer was also wounded, according to the interior ministry.
Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel said the country would defend its sovereignty against what he described as terrorist and mercenary aggression.
Officials stated that all 10 people on board were Cuban nationals living in the United States. They also said an 11th suspect was arrested separately and confessed to involvement in the alleged plot. Authorities claimed most of the suspects had prior criminal records.
According to the interior ministry, officers recovered handguns, assault rifles and improvised explosive devices from the speedboat, along with tactical equipment.
In Washington, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio called the incident highly unusual. He said the US would independently verify the facts and would not rely solely on Cuban government information. Rubio confirmed the boat was not carrying US government personnel.
The incident comes during heightened tensions between Cuba and the United States. Relations have worsened after US forces seized Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro in a recent operation. The move disrupted oil shipments to Cuba and increased economic pressure on the island.
US President Donald Trump has warned Cuba to make reforms or face consequences. His administration has blocked Venezuelan oil shipments and threatened tariffs on countries supplying fuel to Havana. These actions have deepened Cuba’s ongoing energy shortages.
However, the US Treasury recently announced it would allow limited private sector transactions, including some oil sales, for humanitarian and commercial purposes.
Cuban officials linked the speedboat incident to broader tensions. They said the country remains determined to protect its territorial waters and national stability.
The case has drawn international attention. Both governments are now conducting reviews as diplomatic strains continue.
