Cuba Accuses Florida Boat Passengers of Terrorism After Deadly Clash

Cuban authorities have asserted that a speedboat registered in Florida was not transporting American civilians, but rather individuals labeled as “terrorists” with a history of violence. This statement follows a confrontation on February 25, 2024, which resulted in the deaths of four people and injuries to six others during a high-stakes incident in Cuban waters.

According to the Cuban Interior Ministry, the incident occurred near the El Pino Channel when the vessel, carrying ten people, allegedly entered Cuban territorial waters intending to conduct terrorist activities. The Ministry specified that those on board had “known histories of criminal and violent activity.” Notably, two individuals—Amijail Sánchez González and Leordan Enrique Cruz Gómez—were identified as being on Cuba’s ‘Most Wanted’ list due to their alleged involvement in the planning and financing of terror plots domestically and abroad.

The tension escalated when the boat reportedly opened fire on Cuban border guards, injuring a commander. In response, Cuban forces returned fire, resulting in the fatalities and injuries among the passengers. The Cuban government has stated that the injured were evacuated and received medical assistance following the confrontation.

A U.S. official confirmed that the boat in question was a civilian vessel, part of a flotilla aimed at assisting relatives in Cuba. The official emphasized that it was not affiliated with the U.S. Navy or Coast Guard.

In the aftermath of the incident, Marco Rubio, a U.S. Senator, spoke to reporters regarding U.S. efforts to gather intelligence about the situation. He indicated that various government entities are working to clarify the events that transpired in Cuban waters. “We have various different elements of the U.S. government that are trying to identify elements of the story that may not be provided to us now,” Rubio stated.

Florida Republican Representative Carlos Gimenez condemned the actions of the Cuban government, claiming they “murdered” Americans during the incident. He called for an immediate investigation into what he described as a massacre. Gimenez further criticized Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness for his statements urging for dialogue between Cuba and the U.S., accusing him of defending the Cuban regime.

Holness emphasized the need for responsible leadership and constructive dialogue, stating, “This moment calls for responsible leadership and constructive dialogue, particularly between Cuba and the United States, to ease tensions and promote reform and stability.” He affirmed Jamaica’s solidarity with the Cuban people while advocating for regional stability and prosperity.

The situation remains fluid as U.S. officials continue to assess the ramifications of this incident, with implications for U.S.-Cuba relations and broader Caribbean stability.