4 Killed in Boat Shooting Incident Near Cuba

Cuban authorities say the speedboat was carrying 10 people trying to infiltrate the country for terrorist activities

Feb. 26, 2026 at 9:54pm

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Cuban soldiers confronted a speedboat carrying 10 people as the vessel approached the island and opened fire on the troops, who fired back, killing four and wounding six, according to the Cuban government. The Cuban Ministry of the Interior accused the people aboard the boat of trying to infiltrate the country to engage in terrorism, while U.S. officials said it was not a U.S. government operation. The incident has resulted in investigations in both Cuba and the United States and could add to tensions between the two countries.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the ongoing tensions and mistrust between Cuba and the United States, particularly around issues of national security and sovereignty. It also comes at a time of economic and energy challenges for Cuba, which has faced increased U.S. sanctions and pressure in recent years.

The details

According to Cuban authorities, the speedboat was Florida-registered and officials who searched it found assault rifles, handguns, homemade explosives, bulletproof vests, telescopic sights and camouflage uniforms. The Cuban government identified seven of the 10 passengers, two of whom are wanted by Cuban authorities for their alleged involvement in promoting, planning, organizing, financing, supporting or committing terrorism. One of the four killed was identified as Michel Ortega Casanova, an American citizen who had lived in the U.S. for over 20 years.

  • The confrontation occurred on Wednesday, February 26, 2026.

The players

Cuban Ministry of the Interior

The Cuban government agency that oversees national security and law enforcement.

Marco Rubio

U.S. Secretary of State, who stated that the incident was not a U.S. government operation.

Miguel Díaz-Canel

The President of Cuba, who said that Cuba "does not attack or threaten" and will defend itself "with determination and firmness against any terrorist or mercenary aggression."

Amijail Sánchez González and Leordan Enrique Cruz Gómez

Two of the passengers on the boat who are wanted by Cuban authorities for their alleged involvement in the promotion, planning, organization, financing, support or commission of terrorism.

Michel Ortega Casanova

One of the four people killed in the incident, who was identified as an American citizen who had lived in the U.S. for over 20 years.

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What they’re saying

“We have stated this repeatedly, and we reiterate it today: Cuba will defend itself with determination and firmness against any terrorist or mercenary aggression that seeks to undermine its sovereignty and national stability.”

— Miguel Díaz-Canel, President of Cuba (X)

What’s next

The U.S. Attorney's Office for the Southern District of Florida said it was pursuing answers "through every legal and diplomatic channel available." Cuban authorities have also launched an investigation into the incident.

The takeaway

This confrontation highlights the ongoing tensions and mistrust between Cuba and the United States, particularly around issues of national security and sovereignty. It also comes at a time of economic and energy challenges for Cuba, which has faced increased U.S. sanctions and pressure in recent years, raising concerns about the potential for further escalation between the two countries.