The United States (US) is reportedly preparing to seek an indictment against former Cuban president Raul Castro in a case linked to the 1996 downing of civilian aircraft, according to a US Department of Justice official.
Reuters reported that the potential indictment would require approval from a grand jury, with officials suggesting legal action could be imminent. However, the exact timing remains unclear.
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The case is expected to focus on Cuba’s alleged involvement in the 1996 shooting down of planes operated by Brothers to the Rescue, a humanitarian organisation known for conducting flights near Cuban airspace. The incident resulted in multiple fatalities and has remained a long-standing source of tension between Washington and Havana.
Raul Castro, now 94, served as president of Cuba from 2008 to 2018 and succeeded his brother, former revolutionary leader Fidel Castro. He remains one of the most prominent figures associated with Cuba’s communist government.
US prosecutors are reportedly reviewing possible criminal charges against senior Cuban officials as part of a broader legal effort led by the US Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Florida.
Neither Cuba’s foreign ministry nor the US Justice Department had issued an official public response regarding the reported plans at the time of publication.
The latest development comes amid heightened tensions between the United States and Cuba under President Donald Trump’s administration, which has intensified pressure on Havana through economic sanctions and restrictions targeting fuel supplies.
Washington has repeatedly criticised Cuba’s current government, while US officials have maintained pressure on the island over governance, human rights and regional security concerns.
Despite strained ties, officials from both countries had earlier acknowledged diplomatic talks. Reports also indicated that Cuba recently held discussions with CIA Director John Ratcliffe.
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According to US officials, Washington has expressed willingness to engage on economic and security matters if Cuba undertakes significant policy changes.
The reported indictment effort could further complicate already fragile relations between the two countries, reviving historical disputes while adding new legal pressure on Cuba’s former leadership.