Cuba says speedboat attackers from Florida planned to destabilise country | Conflict News
Cuban Authorities Accuse Speedboat Passengers of Violence Attempt Against Government
Cuban officials have accused ten men aboard a speedboat traveling from the United States of attempting to launch a violent campaign aimed at destabilizing the island’s government. The allegations come following a shootout between the crew and Cuban border agents that resulted in the deaths of four individuals.
The remaining six crew members are currently receiving medical treatment for their injuries, and at least one Cuban officer was wounded during the confrontation. Among the deceased, at least one has been identified as a U.S. citizen, according to White House officials.
In a defense of the government’s actions, officials claimed that the passengers opened fire first. Cuban President Manuel Diaz-Canel stated on social media that Cuba is committed to defending itself against “terrorist and mercenary aggression” that threatens its sovereignty.
This incident occurs amid heightened tensions between Cuba and the United States, which has issued several threats against the island’s communist regime. The Trump administration intensified measures aimed at exacerbating economic conditions in Cuba, including a fuel blockade imposed in late January.
So far, the Cuban government has identified only one of the deceased – Michel Ortega Casanova. According to an associate of Casanova, he aimed to overthrow the government in Havana. Wilfredo Beyra, head of the Cuban Republican Party in Tampa, revealed that Casanova intended to incite public uprising against what he described as a “criminal and murderous narco-tyrannical” regime.
Casanova’s family expressed surprise at his plans, emphasizing that they were unaware of his intentions. His brother, Misrael Ortega Casanova, mentioned that Michel was part of a group deeply concerned about human rights abuses on the island.
U.S. officials have stated they will investigate the incident, denying any government involvement. Secretary of State Marco Rubio indicated that the U.S. embassy in Havana is seeking further information, especially regarding the status of U.S. citizens involved.
The U.S. has previously collaborated with Cuban exiles in actions against the Cuban government, including clandestine operations. Activist groups have emerged in South Florida, using small vessels and planes to assist Cuban nationals.
Cuban authorities have leveraged U.S. interventions as justification for stringent restrictions on political dissent, drawing criticism from human rights organizations.
In addition to Ortega Casanova, Cuban authorities have identified several other passengers, including Conrado Galindo Sariol, Jose Manuel Rodriguez Castello, Cristian Ernesto Acosta Guevara, and Roberto Azcorra Consuegra. Two of the crew members are presently wanted by law enforcement due to their alleged involvement in activities related to terrorism.
