Past Clashes with Cuban Border Forces Highlight Vessel Tensions
A recent gunfight in Cuba’s territorial waters has raised concerns about ongoing tensions between Cuban border forces and U.S.-based vessels. This incident is a continuation of a troubling pattern seen in prior years.
Past Clashes with Cuban Border Forces Highlight Vessel Tensions
Incidents of Gunfire in Cuban Waters
In 2022, Cuba’s Ministry of Interior reported intercepting 13 American speedboats involved in migrant smuggling operations. Two of these encounters resulted in direct exchanges of gunfire.
- In June 2022, a speedboat west of Cayo Fragoso faced pursuit from Cuban border guards. The individual aboard fired an automatic rifle, injuring a Cuban officer.
- The U.S. Coast Guard later intervened, apprehending the vessel. One individual was repatriated to Cuba nine days post-incident.
- On the same day, a Florida-registered vessel engaged Cuban forces three nautical miles north of Bahía Honda, resulting in the death of one trafficker during the confrontation.
The Cuban government emphasized that these events stem from what it perceives as a hostile U.S. immigration policy, which they believe fuels human trafficking activities.
Recent Gunfire Incident
In the recent altercation, a vessel approached within one nautical mile of the El Pino channel, located north of Corralillo in Villa Clara province. Cuban border guards were in pursuit, seeking to identify the speedboat when the occupants opened fire.
- This clash resulted in the wounding of a Cuban commander and led to a violent exchange.
- The Cuban Ministry reported that at least four individuals were killed, with six others wounded during the incident.
The recurring violence highlights the ongoing tensions between Cuban authorities and foreign vessels, particularly those linked to illegal activities. Such incidents raise critical questions about border security and immigration policies affecting both sides.
