A Florida-registered speedboat was concerned in a lethal taking pictures with Cuban border guards on February 25, 2026, leading to 4 fatalities, in accordance with an official assertion from Cuba’s Ministry of the Inside launched through the Cuban Embassy in Washington.
What Occurred in Cuban Waters
Cuban authorities mentioned the vessel, registered in Florida below quantity FL7726SH, was detected inside Cuban territorial waters, roughly one nautical mile northeast of the El Pino channel, close to Cayo Falcones in Villa Clara province.
In keeping with the official Cuban account, a patrol unit from the Border Guard Troops approached the boat for identification. Authorities declare the occupants of the Florida-registered vessel opened hearth, injuring the commander of the Cuban patrol boat.
A shootout adopted
Cuban officers reported that 4 people aboard the speedboat had been killed and 6 others injured. The injured had been evacuated and reportedly obtained medical therapy.
U.S. Response Pending
As of publication, no detailed assertion had been issued by U.S. federal authorities relating to the incident. The scenario stays below investigation by Cuban authorities, who mentioned they’re working to make clear the complete sequence of occasions.
Why This Issues
The incident comes amid heightened tensions throughout the Caribbean involving maritime migration routes, smuggling enforcement, and territorial patrol operations.
Any confirmed involvement of a Florida-registered vessel may elevate diplomatic questions between Havana and Washington, notably if U.S. residents had been concerned.