Cuba Charges Six Exiles with Terrorism Over Florida-Linked Speedboat Attack

Cuban authorities have formally charged six exiles with terrorism following a deadly confrontation at sea that left four Cuban nationals dead and six others wounded. The incident, which occurred last week in Cuban territorial waters, involved a speedboat reportedly registered in Florida.

The Cuban Interior Ministry stated that the group opened fire on a coast guard vessel, prompting Cuban forces to return fire and detain the six survivors. Officials allege the exiles came from the United States with the intent to attack military targets and destabilize the Communist-run island.

Weapons and Alleged Motives

Cuban authorities displayed captured armaments, including 13 rifles, 11 pistols, and nearly 13,000 rounds of ammunition, claiming some detainees were previously listed as accused terrorists. Photographs of the vessels, riddled with bullet holes, indicated that the firefight occurred at close range.

Prosecutor Edward Robert Campbell told state television the accused could face up to 10–15 years for lesser offenses, 20–30 years for more serious charges, or the death penalty. The exact condition and location of the wounded detainees remain undisclosed amid heightened US-Cuba tensions.

International Reactions

US officials have expressed skepticism about Cuba’s account, emphasizing that no US government personnel were involved. Secretary of State Marco Rubio reiterated that Washington was not behind the operation and called for independent investigations.

Cuba’s announcement comes as the US has effectively halted all oil shipments to the island, pressuring Havana for political and economic reforms. The clash underscores growing frictions between Cuban authorities and exiles operating from the United States.