Cuba Shoots Dead 4 After Gunfire Exchange With US-Registered Speedboat Near Its Coast

A dramatic and deadly confrontation unfolded off Cuba’s northern coast this week, after Cuban authorities say a US-registered speedboat opened fire on their coast guard.

According to Cuba’s Interior Ministry, the incident occurred just one nautical mile from Cayo Falcones island. Officials claim the vessel — registered in Florida under number FL7726SH — was operating illegally in Cuban territorial waters when coast guard forces approached it.

What happened next has now sparked international concern.

Cuban authorities allege that shots were fired from the speedboat, injuring the commander of the Cuban patrol vessel. In response, the coast guard returned fire. Four people aboard the speedboat were killed, and six others were wounded. The injured were reportedly evacuated and provided medical treatment.

However, Cuban officials have not disclosed the nationalities of those on board or clarified why the vessel was near the island.

Washington Seeks Answers

The shooting has triggered immediate reactions in Washington.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that the United States is conducting its own assessment of the incident and will not rely solely on Cuba’s version of events.

“We’re not going to base our conclusions on what they’ve told us,” Rubio said during a visit to St Kitts and Nevis. He emphasized that the US would “respond accordingly” once more verified information becomes available.

Meanwhile, US Vice President JD Vance confirmed that the White House is closely monitoring the situation. Speaking to reporters, he acknowledged that details remain limited but expressed hope that the situation is not as severe as early reports suggest.

Florida Orders Investigation

Given Florida’s proximity to Cuba — just about 100 miles across the Florida Straits — the state’s attorney general has ordered a formal investigation into the deaths.

Incidents involving vessels crossing between the US and Cuba are not uncommon. The Cuban government has frequently reported alleged incursions by boats from the United States into its territorial waters, often citing security concerns.

However, this latest clash — resulting in multiple fatalities — risks adding fresh strain to already tense US-Cuba relations, which remain complicated by longstanding sanctions and political disagreements.

What Happens Next?

Cuba’s Interior Ministry says investigations are ongoing and reiterated its commitment to defending the country’s maritime borders.

For now, key questions remain unanswered:

• Who exactly were the passengers on the boat?
• Why was the vessel so close to Cuban territory?
• What do independent investigations reveal about who fired first?

As both governments gather facts, the world will be watching closely to see whether this maritime confrontation escalates into a broader diplomatic standoff.

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