Four passengers of Florida-registered US speedboat shot dead by Cuban coast guard
Times of India
by TOI WORLD DESKFebruary 25, 2026
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Cuba’s coastguard reported a clash off its northern shore near Villa Clara province, resulting in the deaths of four individuals and injuries to six others from an American-registered speedboat. The incident occurred after Cuban authorities detected the vessel one nautical mile from Falcones Cay, leading them to approach for identification. Upon arrival, shots were fired from the boat, injuring the coastguard commander. In response, Cuban forces engaged, resulting in four fatalities and six injuries on the foreign vessel, with the latter receiving medical aid. The ministry emphasized its commitment to safeguarding territorial waters, citing national security as the reason for the action.
The Florida-registered speedboat was flagged by Cuban officials during routine surveillance, raising suspicions of illegal activity. This incident unfolds amid heightened US-Cuba tensions, particularly following Washington's recent policy shifts. Previously reliant on Venezuelan oil for half its needs, Cuba faced a supply crunch after President Trump imposed sanctions targeting Venezuela under the guise of humanitarian concerns. However, in January 2023, the US eased restrictions to allow Venezuelan oil imports for "commercial and humanitarian" purposes, partly due to regional outcry over potential economic collapse in Cuba.
This firefight highlights deeper geopolitical dynamics between the US and Cuba, with both nations engaging in a delicate balance of power and influence. The situation underscores Cuba's vulnerability following Venezuela's political upheaval, which
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Originally published on Times of India on 2/25/2026