According to Axios, American citizens were reportedly on board the vessel involved in a deadly confrontation with the Cuban coast guard, citing U.S. officials.
The report suggests that the 24-foot boat, allegedly stolen from the Florida Keys, had American nationals among its passengers when the shooting occurred on Wednesday off the Cuban coast.
This incident, resulting in four deaths and six injuries, has sparked a new wave of tension between the two nations.
Officials told Axios that at least one of the deceased was an American citizen. Additionally, another U.S. citizen was among the injured and is reportedly receiving medical care in Cuba.
The U.S. government has formally requested consular access to the six survivors.
The Cuban regime identified the wounded as Cristian Ernesto Acosta Guevara, Conrado Galindo Serrior, José Manuel Rodríguez Castelló, Leordán Cruz Gómez, Amijail Sánchez González, and Roberto Álvarez Ávila.
In contrast, Pavel Alling Peña, Michael Ortega Casanova, Ledián Padrón Guevara, and Héctor Duani Cruz Correa were reported as fatalities.
Axios reports that some individuals aboard had criminal records. At least one held a valid K-1 visa (fiancé visa), while others were permanent residents of the United States.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that the U.S. government is conducting an independent investigation into the incident and will not solely rely on the account provided by Havana.
Cuban authorities have claimed that the boat violated territorial waters and that its occupants intended to carry out a "terrorist infiltration," also alleging the seizure of weapons on board.
Meanwhile, Washington continues to gather information while requesting access to the survivors to clarify the events. Havana asserts that it is cooperating with U.S. authorities and was already aware of the occupants' plans.
Key Questions About the U.S.-Cuba Boat Incident
What was the nationality of the individuals involved in the incident?
The individuals involved included American citizens and other individuals with ties to the United States.
How is the U.S. government responding to the incident?
The U.S. government has requested consular access to the survivors and is conducting an independent investigation into the events.
What are the claims made by Cuban authorities?
Cuban authorities allege that the boat violated territorial waters and that its occupants intended a "terrorist infiltration," also noting the seizure of weapons on board.