Cuba reports deadly clash with US-licensed boat in its territorial waters

2026-02-25 - 20:52

Cuba's Interior Ministry reported Wednesday that an armed confrontation occurred when border guards attempted to interdict a boat operating in Cuban territorial waters, resulting in four dead and six injured among the vessel's crew. The boat was licensed in the US state of Florida and had entered Cuban waters illegally, according to the ministry's statement. Incident Details The vessel was detected approximately one nautical mile northeast of the El Pino channel, off the northern Cayo Falcones island, about 150 kilometers from Florida's southern tip. Five Cuban border guard troops were dispatched to intercept the vessel but came under gunfire as they approached. The Cuban commanding officer was injured in the exchange. Four of the alleged attackers were killed, while six others sustained wounds and were transported to the island for medical attention. Cuban Sovereignty Response "In the face of current challenges, Cuba reaffirms its determination to protect its territorial waters, based on the principle that national defense is a fundamental pillar of the Cuban State in safeguarding its sovereignty and ensuring stability in the region," the Interior Ministry stated. The incident highlights ongoing tensions between the two countries, with the United States maintaining a strict embargo against Cuba and President Donald Trump having pledged to see the island "fall." Context of US Pressure The armed attack occurs amid intensified US pressure on Cuba, including fuel embargoes that have left the island facing severe energy shortages. Washington has also moved to block oil shipments from Venezuela and other allies, deepening Cuba's economic crisis. The confrontation at sea adds a dangerous new dimension to bilateral tensions, with Cuban authorities signaling they will vigorously defend their territorial sovereignty despite facing what they characterize as aggression from US-licensed vessels operating with apparent impunity.