Havana: Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel declared that Cuba would resolutely defend itself against threats to its sovereignty following a thwarted "armed infiltration" attempt off the northern coast. Diaz-Canel emphasized that Cuba's stance is firm against any form of aggression aimed at destabilizing the nation, stating through the US social media platform X that "Cuba does not attack or threaten."

According to Anadolu Agency, Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez supported the president's assertions, describing the defense of Cuba's coastline and territory as an unavoidable responsibility. Rodriguez confirmed that a comprehensive investigation is underway to uncover the details of the attempted infiltration. He highlighted Cuba's historical challenges with numerous aggressive infiltrations stemming from the United States since 1959, which have resulted in significant loss of life and material damage.

The statements followed an incident where Cuban authorities intercepted a speedboat registered in Florida, carrying 10 armed individuals. These individuals allegedly aimed to execute a "terrorist" infiltration, as described by the Interior Ministry. The vessel entered Cuban waters and fired upon border guards, injuring one officer. In response, four attackers were killed, and six were wounded. The authorities confiscated various weapons and equipment from the vessel, including assault rifles, handguns, Molotov cocktails, body armor, telescopic sights, and camouflage uniforms. The Interior Ministry reported that all individuals on board were Cuban nationals residing in the United States, many with prior criminal records involving violent activities. The investigation into the incident continues.

On the same day, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced that Washington is conducting its own investigation into the incident. He emphasized that US authorities would independently verify the details provided by Havana.