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Armed Infiltration in Cuba: Did the Regime Have Prior Knowledge?

Thursday, February 26, 2026 by Charlotte Gomez

The official report by Cuba's Ministry of the Interior (MININT) regarding a high-speed boat infiltration from Florida, carrying 10 armed individuals allegedly with "terrorist plans," raises questions about whether the Cuban regime was aware of the operation in advance.

According to the official account, four individuals lost their lives during a confrontation with the Border Guard Troops, while six others were apprehended.

Cuban journalist Wilfredo Cancio Isla introduced the possibility of prior knowledge in a Facebook post, suggesting that the disclosed elements indicate an operation potentially compromised by Cuban intelligence.

Speculations Based on Díaz-Canel's Speech

On February 5, during a press briefing at the Palace of the Revolution concerning the worsening crisis in Cuba, Miguel Díaz-Canel hinted at supposed violent plans targeting the nation. "I would say more. Today, we know about plans for terrorist acts that are being supported, financed, and prepared in the United States to attack Cuba at times like this. We will provide information and make all necessary denunciations in due course," he asserted.

During this appearance, the leader also criticized the United States for keeping Cuba on the list of state sponsors of terrorism. The assembled press, all aligned with the regime, did not press with follow-up questions regarding these alleged plans.

Arrests and Unanswered Questions

In its second statement about the incident off Corralillo's coast, MININT announced the arrest of Duniel Hernández Santos within national territory, identifying him as the alleged coordinator for receiving the shipment carried by the vessel.

The official note claims the detainee confessed to his involvement. However, authorities did not specify the date of his arrest, a crucial detail. If he was apprehended before the attempted maritime entry, it would suggest that the operation did not catch Cuban security forces off guard.

Details about the identities of three deceased individuals remain undisclosed. Both the governments of Cuba and the United States continue to investigate the true origin and organization behind the plan.

This armed confrontation arises at a particularly sensitive time in the relationship between Havana and Washington.

Key Questions About the Armed Infiltration in Cuba

What was the outcome of the high-speed boat infiltration in Cuba?

The infiltration resulted in a confrontation with the Border Guard Troops, leading to the deaths of four individuals and the arrest of six others.

Did Cuban intelligence have prior knowledge of the operation?

Speculations suggest that Cuban intelligence might have been aware of the operation in advance, as indicated by elements disclosed and commentary by journalist Wilfredo Cancio Isla.

How did Miguel Díaz-Canel address the issue of potential threats?

Díaz-Canel mentioned in a press conference that Cuba was aware of plans for terrorist acts prepared and financed in the United States, which would be exposed and denounced in due course.

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