Cuba coastguard kills 4 in firefight with US-registered speedboat
South China Morning Post
by Agence France-PresseFebruary 25, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Cuba’s coastguard engaged in a deadly clash with a US-registered speedboat off the Cuban coast on Wednesday, resulting in four deaths and six injuries. The incident occurred near Falcones Cay in Villa Clara province when Cuban authorities intercepted the vessel, which they deemed "illegal." As the coastguard approached to identify the boat, shots were fired from the speedboat, injuring the commander of the Cuban vessel. In response, Cuban forces opened fire, killing four individuals on board the foreign-registered boat and wounding six others. The injured were promptly evacuated and received medical assistance.
The incident unfolded near a remote cay known for its strategic location close to Cuban territorial waters. The US-registered speedboat, described as a 7.3-meter Pro-Line fishing vessel built in 1981 with an outboard engine, was reportedly attempting to leave Cuba. According to reports, the boat may have been involved in human trafficking or illegal immigration, though its exact purpose remains unclear. The New York Times cited a US official stating that no US Navy or coastguard vessels were involved in the clash, emphasizing that it was a civilian operation.
Cuba’s interior ministry justified the action, highlighting their commitment to safeguarding their territorial waters. The ministry also noted that the injured individuals were provided with medical aid, underscoring Cuba’s adherence to protocols for maritime incidents. The incident raises questions about the broader implications of illegal crossings near Cuban waters and the risks associated with such operations.
The clash highlights the ongoing tensions between Cuba and the United States regarding migration policies and maritime security. It also underscores the dangers faced by individuals attempting to leave Cuba illegally, often at great personal risk. The involvement of a US-registered vessel adds another layer of complexity to the situation, potentially straining relations further between the two nations.
This incident serves as a reminder of the volatile nature of international waters and the challenges faced by coastal authorities in enforcing territorial regulations. As global migration patterns continue to evolve, such incidents are likely to persist, drawing attention to the human
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Originally published on South China Morning Post on 2/25/2026