Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that the United States is looking into an incident off Cuba’s coast following reports from Cuban authorities about a rare “shootouts on open sea” event. The US is seeking independent verification of the facts and access to any involved individuals who may be US citizens or residents.
Rubio mentioned that various US agencies, including the Department of Homeland Security and the Coast Guard, are involved in the investigation. The information available so far is primarily from Cuban authorities, and the US embassy in Havana is actively working on the case.
Rubio emphasized the need for verification before drawing conclusions, stating that US agencies are working to confirm the details independently. He highlighted the unusual nature of the reported circumstances, noting that such incidents are uncommon, particularly with Cuba.
Rubio also addressed US actions regarding Venezuelan oil sales to Cuba’s private sector for humanitarian purposes. He clarified that while selling to Cuba’s private sector has always been legal, any diversion of fuel to the Cuban government or military entities would result in the revocation of licenses.
