According to Cuban authorities, all individuals injured during a confrontation between Border Guard Troops and a speedboat originating from Florida, including a Cuban officer, are receiving medical care with all available resources from the healthcare system.
Colonel Juan Antonio Ramírez Aguilera, head of medical services at the Ministry of the Interior, stated on the state-run program "Razones de Cuba" that both the injured officer and the occupants of the intercepted vessel are being treated under the same medical protocols.
"The boat's captain, who sustained injuries to the abdomen and forearm, is in stable condition and his health is deemed favorable," the colonel detailed.
He added that the captain is receiving specialized medical attention and "has access to all necessary resources for recovery."
Ramírez Aguilera emphasized that, as part of Cuba's medical ethics, healthcare resources are made available to patients "regardless of their identity," thus they are also being used to treat those injured on the vessel from Florida.
The incident occurred off the northern coast of Villa Clara when a Border Guard unit intercepted a boat with Florida registration, which was reportedly navigating illegally in Cuban territorial waters.
During the operation, the captain of the Cuban vessel—previously identified as Captain Yosmany—was shot in the abdominal area while maneuvering the unit.
First Colonel Ybey Carballo Pérez, chief of staff for the Directorate of Border Guard Troops, explained on national television that the intercepted vessel opened fire as the Cuban unit approached for identification. In response, the Cuban crew returned fire with their standard-issue weapons.
Authorities reported that ten individuals were on board the boat and that the gunfire exchange resulted in casualties and injuries among its occupants. The injured were subsequently transported to hospitals on the mainland.
The case has stirred diplomatic tensions since the victims included U.S. citizens and legal residents. While investigations are ongoing, the Cuban government maintains that the actions taken were "defensive and proportional," asserting that all injured parties are receiving medical care in accordance with established protocols.
Key Details on the Boat Incident and Medical Response
What triggered the confrontation between the Cuban Border Guards and the Florida boat?
The confrontation was triggered when a Cuban Border Guard unit intercepted a boat with Florida registration, which was reportedly navigating illegally in Cuban territorial waters. The Florida boat opened fire as the Cuban unit approached, leading to an exchange of gunfire.
How are the injured individuals being treated in Cuba?
Injured individuals, including the boat's captain and a Cuban officer, are receiving medical care with all available resources. They are treated under the same medical protocols, with specialized attention and necessary resources for recovery.
Why has the incident led to diplomatic tensions?
Diplomatic tensions have arisen because the victims included U.S. citizens and legal residents. The Cuban government insists their actions were defensive, which has been a point of contention.