U.S. Indicts Former Cuban Leader Raúl Castro Over 1996 Plane Shootdown
The United States has indicted former Cuban President Raúl Castro for his alleged role in the 1996 downing of two civilian aircraft operated by Brothers to the Rescue, resulting in the deaths of four individuals.
On May 20, 2026, the U.S. Department of Justice unsealed an indictment against former Cuban President Raúl Castro, 94, and five others for their alleged involvement in the 1996 shootdown of two unarmed civilian aircraft operated by the Miami-based exile group Brothers to the Rescue. The incident resulted in the deaths of four individuals, including three U.S. citizens.
The indictment charges Castro with conspiracy to kill U.S. nationals, murder, and destruction of aircraft. At the time of the incident, Castro served as Cuba's defense minister. The other defendants include Cuban military pilots and officials allegedly involved in the operation.
Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche stated,
"Over three decades later, we are committed to holding those accountable for the murders of four brave Americans."
The indictment alleges that on February 24, 1996, Cuban fighter jets, under Castro's command, fired air-to-air missiles at two unarmed Cessna aircraft belonging to Brothers to the Rescue. The planes were reportedly flying in international airspace at the time.
Cuban officials have condemned the indictment, asserting that the planes were shot down within Cuban airspace after repeated warnings. They have labeled Brothers to the Rescue as a "terrorist" organization.
This legal action marks a significant escalation in U.S.-Cuba relations, with the Trump administration intensifying pressure on the Cuban government. The likelihood of Castro standing trial remains uncertain, as Cuba does not extradite its citizens to the United States.