Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum expressed skepticism on Friday regarding the formal charges filed by the U.S. Department of Justice against former Cuban President Raúl Castro. The charges relate to the 1996 downing of two planes operated by the organization Brothers to the Rescue.
During her morning press conference, Sheinbaum pondered, "What is the purpose of accusing someone now for an event that happened three decades ago?"
Questioning U.S. Intervention
Sheinbaum framed the indictment as part of what she described as the United States' longstanding "interventionist vision," emphasizing, "We must not forget that there is often another agenda behind their actions."
When asked about her government's stance, Sheinbaum succinctly stated, "Self-determination of nations."
Historical Context and Diplomatic Relations
The Mexican leader referenced the memoirs of former President Miguel de la Madrid, highlighting that "the United States has historically used the drug trafficking issue as a pretext for interference."
Sheinbaum stressed her administration's desire to avoid confrontation with Washington, advocating for a positive bilateral relationship by pointing out the presence of 38 million Mexicans living in the United States.
Details of the Indictment
The charges, which provoked Sheinbaum’s comments, were declassified last Wednesday by a federal grand jury in the Southern District of Florida, having been originally presented on April 23, 2026.
Raúl Castro faces accusations of conspiracy to murder U.S. citizens, destruction of aircraft, and four individual counts of murder for the deaths of Armando Alejandre Jr., Carlos Costa, Mario de la Peña, and Pablo Morales, all of whom were U.S. citizens or residents.
The 1996 Incident
On February 24, 1996, Cuban Air Force MiG fighters shot down two civilian Cessna planes belonging to Brothers to the Rescue over the Florida Straits. The International Civil Aviation Organization determined in July of that year that the incident occurred outside Cuban territorial airspace, approximately nine to ten nautical miles beyond the boundary.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio labeled Raúl Castro a "fugitive from U.S. justice," although the charges are largely symbolic since there is no extradition treaty between Cuba and the United States, and Castro has never set foot on U.S. soil.
Cuban Response
In Cuba, the regime orchestrated a supportive march in Havana, with internal documents suggesting the demonstration was not spontaneous. Mariela Castro defended her father, and Díaz-Canel challenged Washington following the rally in support of the former leader.
The indictment is supported by evidence that includes a June 1996 audio recording allegedly capturing Raúl Castro discussing the order to shoot down the planes, an incident that victims' families have long sought to see prosecuted.
Understanding the Charges Against Raúl Castro
Why is Raúl Castro being charged now?
The charges are symbolic and aim to address the longstanding demands for justice by the victims' families, even though the event occurred 30 years ago.
What are the main accusations against Raúl Castro?
Raúl Castro is accused of conspiracy to murder U.S. citizens, destroying aircraft, and four counts of murder related to the 1996 shootdown of Brothers to the Rescue planes.
How has Cuba responded to the charges?
Cuba organized a supportive march in Havana, with internal documents indicating the event was not spontaneous. Cuban leaders have defended Raúl Castro and criticized U.S. actions.