‘Had Molotov cocktails, camouflage gear’: Cuban forces engage with gunmen on speedboat 'who came from US'
Times of India
by TOI WORLD DESKFebruary 26, 2026
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Cuba’s security forces have reported intercepting a Florida-registered speedboat carrying 10 individuals who opened fire on Cuban troops near its northern coast. The clash resulted in four deaths and six injuries, with Cuban authorities claiming the suspects were attempting to infiltrate the country for terrorist purposes. The incident occurred approximately one mile northeast of Cayo Falcones, where the boat allegedly fired first, injuring a Cuban officer. Among the confiscated items were assault rifles, handguns, Molotov cocktails, and military-style gear.
The Cuban Interior Ministry stated that the detained suspects revealed their intent to carry out acts of terrorism. Two individuals, Amijail Sanchez Gonzalez and Leordan Enrique Cruz Gomez, were identified as wanted fugitives linked to organizing and financing terrorist activities. Another suspect, Duniel Hernandez Santos, confessed to facilitating the infiltration from the United States. The boat’s occupants included seven identified passengers, with three others remaining unnamed.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized that Washington was gathering its own information to determine the involvement of US citizens or residents in the incident. While Rubio clarified that this was not a US government operation, he acknowledged the unusual nature of the shootout and expressed concern over Cuba’s narrative. The US Coast Guard and Homeland Security are collaborating with Cuban authorities to investigate.
The incident raises tensions between the two nations, particularly amid strained relations following the ouster of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro. Cuba has faced increasing pressure from the United States, including an energy crisis exacerbated by Trump administration policies. The situation highlights the fragile state of US-Cuba relations and underscores the risks of cross-border security incidents in the region.
This incident is significant for readers interested in global affairs as it reflects the ongoing challenges in US-Cuba relations and the potential for escalations in the Caribbean.
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Originally published on Times of India on 2/26/2026