U.S. Unseals Murder Indictment Against Raúl Castro Over 1996 Shootdown of Cuban Exile Aircraft

Mintesinot Nigussie

A U.S. federal court has unsealed murder and conspiracy charges against former Cuban president Raúl Castro. The charges relate to the 1996 downing of two civilian aircraft operated by Cuban exiles, which resulted in the deaths of four people including U.S. nationals.

The indictment also names five Cuban military fighter pilots. Castro, who was defence minister at the time, faces seven counts including conspiracy to kill U.S. nationals and destruction of aircraft.

The incident occurred on February 24, 1996, when Cuban jets shot down the planes in international airspace. A warrant has been issued for Castro’s arrest, though he remains in Cuba with no extradition treaty in place.

Cuban authorities have previously described the action as lawful national defence. The case escalates longstanding tensions between Washington and Havana.

The indictment reflects the Trump administration’s more confrontational approach toward the Cuban government.

Raúl Castro, now 94, remains a symbolic figure in Cuba despite largely withdrawing from public life.