The United States is preparing to indict former Cuban President Raul Castro, a U.S. Department of Justice official disclosed late on Thursday. The potential indictment, which requires grand jury approval, appears imminent, though the exact timing remains unclear.
Focus on 1996 Aircraft Downing
The case centers on Cuba's deadly 1996 shootdown of two civilian aircraft operated by the humanitarian group Brothers to the Rescue, according to a CBS report. The official, speaking on condition of anonymity, confirmed that the indictment would focus on this incident. Raul Castro, now 94, served as Cuba's president from 2008 to 2018, succeeding his brother Fidel Castro.
Political Context
This development occurs amid heightened tensions between the Trump administration and Cuba's communist government. President Donald Trump has intensified pressure on Cuba, effectively imposing a blockade by threatening sanctions on countries supplying fuel to the island. This has led to power outages and economic strain. The U.S. Attorney's Office for the Southern District of Florida has been investigating potential criminal charges against senior Cuban officials.
Earlier this year, both countries acknowledged negotiations, but talks stalled due to the ongoing fuel blockade. However, on Thursday, Cuba confirmed a meeting with CIA Director John Ratcliffe. A CIA official stated that Ratcliffe informed Cuban intelligence officials that the U.S. is willing to discuss economic security if Cuba implements "fundamental changes."
Representatives for Cuba's foreign ministry and the U.S. Justice Department did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
