Four people were killed and six others injured after Cuban border guards opened fire on a US-registered speedboat that allegedly entered Cuban territorial waters and exchanged gunfire with authorities, according to Cuba’s interior ministry. The incident occurred near Cayo Falcones, an island located off Cuba’s northern coast in Villa Clara province, raising fresh tensions between Havana and Washington.
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Cuban officials said the speedboat, registered in Florida, was detected on Wednesday morning and approached by a border guard vessel for identification. Authorities claimed the passengers on the foreign boat opened fire first, injuring a Cuban commander and triggering an armed confrontation at sea. In response, Cuban border guards returned fire, resulting in four fatalities among the speedboat passengers and injuries to six others.
BREAKING: Cuban forces open fire on U.S.-registered speedboat — 4 dead after alleged territorial violation & shootout.
Florida boat, international waters drama escalating fast.
What’s really happening here? #Cuba #USACuba #BreakingNews pic.twitter.com/hYjfD9jk1g— Gabriel Atta (@Xviralarchitect) February 26, 2026
The wounded individuals were evacuated and provided medical treatment, while Cuban authorities launched an investigation to determine the identities of those on board and their purpose in the area. Officials said they remain committed to protecting Cuba’s sovereignty and territorial waters.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed that US authorities are gathering information but said the nationalities of those involved remain unclear. He noted that the vessel was not carrying US government personnel and emphasized that American investigators would independently verify the facts. The US Coast Guard has reportedly moved toward the area to assist in clarifying the situation.
The incident has prompted calls for a full investigation from several US lawmakers, particularly from Florida, who questioned Cuba’s actions and urged authorities to determine whether any victims were US citizens or residents.
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The confrontation comes amid heightened political tensions between the United States and Cuba, fueled by ongoing economic challenges and diplomatic disputes. Both countries are expected to closely examine the circumstances surrounding the deadly encounter.