Cuban authorities say four people were killed after security forces intercepted a Florida-registered speedboat accused of attempting to infiltrate the island, escalating tensions between Havana and Washington, according to CNN.
Cuba’s Interior Ministry said border guards confronted the vessel after it entered Cuban waters near Villa Clara province. Officials claim one passenger opened fire, wounding a Cuban commander, prompting return fire.
Cuba’s government said the majority of the 10 people on the boat “have a known history of criminal and violent activity.” https://t.co/H38R5Mduyw
— KING 5 News (@KING5Seattle) February 26, 2026
Six others aboard were injured and detained. Authorities said the group was armed with assault rifles, handguns, and Molotov cocktails, and alleged the mission was intended for terrorist activity.
The Marco Rubio said the boat was not part of any U.S. government operation. U.S. officials, including Florida lawmakers, called for a full investigation.
Note from the Ministry of the Interior:
— Cuban Embassy in US (@EmbaCubaUS) February 25, 2026
On the morning of February 25, 2026, a violating speedboat was detected within Cuban territorial waters. The vessel, registered in Florida, United States, with registration number FL7726SH, approached up to 1 nautical mile northeast of the… pic.twitter.com/AEmwtAZ4lO
The incident comes amid heightened pressure on Cuba under President Donald Trump, whose administration has tightened sanctions and increased deportations of Cuban migrants. Cuba has clashed with U.S.-linked vessels before, but deadly encounters remain rare.
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TIPP Staff
