Havana identifies ‘terrorist infiltrators’ from US
Cuban authorities reported that a recent armed encounter with a US-flagged boat involved individuals suspected of planning a terrorist infiltration.
Cuba's Interior Ministry has conducted an investigation into a gunfight between Cuban border guards and a US-flagged speedboat, resulting in significant allegations against the individuals aboard the vessel. The incident, which took place off the north coast of Villa Clara province, began when border guards attempted to conduct an identification check on the boat. In a surprising turn of events, the individuals on the speedboat opened fire, injuring a Cuban patrol craft's commander, which led to a return of gunfire resulting in casualties among the boat's occupants.
According to Cuban officials, the armed men aboard the vessel had intentions of terrorist infiltration, as evidenced by the arsenal found on the boat. Authorities discovered an array of weapons including assault rifles, sidearms, and handmade explosives like Molotov cocktails. Additionally, tactical gear such as ballistic vests and camouflage uniforms were retrieved, leading the Interior Ministry to classify this incident as a serious security threat stemming from foreign aggression.
This incident has raised tensions between Cuba and the United States, highlighting ongoing suspicions and allegations that individuals may be using US territory as a base for hostile actions against Cuba. The Cuban government is likely to use this incident to reinforce its narrative of external threats while simultaneously calling for heightened vigilance against such activities, which could further affect U.S.-Cuban relations in the current political climate.