Cuba: Four Killed on U.S. Boat in Clash with Coast Guard

SadaNews - The Ministry of the Interior in Havana announced that four people were killed and six others injured while on board a speedboat registered in Florida, following an exchange of gunfire with the Cuban coast guard in territorial waters yesterday, Wednesday.

Cuban authorities stated that a maritime patrol attempted to verify the identity of the boat's passengers, but individuals on board opened fire, injuring the captain of the Cuban ship, before the situation escalated into a clash that resulted in casualties and injuries on the opposite side.

Havana confirmed that the injured were transported for treatment, emphasizing its commitment to protecting its maritime sovereignty.

In contrast, Florida State Attorney James Athmaier announced an investigation in coordination with federal authorities and law enforcement agencies, expressing skepticism about the Cuban narrative.

U.S. Vice President Jay D. Vance also indicated that the White House is closely monitoring developments, clarifying that available information remains limited.

The incident comes amid escalating tensions between Washington and Havana over political and economic issues, including the easing of U.S. restrictions on oil supplies to Cuba under specific conditions, amidst regional concerns about broader economic implications for the island.

Washington Eases Oil Ban on Cuba and Calls for Fundamental Reforms

The United States announced on Wednesday the easing of restrictions on Venezuelan oil imports to Cuba for humanitarian reasons, in a move aimed at supporting the Cuban people and the private sector, amid a severe fuel supply crisis that has caused electricity outages.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized that the granted licenses are conditional on not diverting exports to governmental or military agencies, holding the communist government responsible for the current economic crisis.

Rubio warned that if the licenses are misused, "those licenses will be revoked immediately."

He affirmed that Cuba needs "radical change" to improve the living standards of its people and prevent further population loss, pointing out that economic and political reforms are the only opportunity to save the country from continuous decline.

The U.S. Treasury Department confirmed that exports will only be allowed through private companies, to ensure that resources reach commercial and humanitarian uses directed at the Cuban people.