US prepares charges against Raúl Castro over 1996 civilian plane shootdown

Added: 2026-05-27

[00:00:01][music] >> New developments this morning as the US is preparing to take a major step against one of Cuba's most powerful figures. Justice Department and the FBI are expected to announce criminal charges against former Cuban President Raul Castro, the brother of long-time Cuban leader Fidel Castro. Reports say US officials plan to accuse Cuba's leadership of ordering the shoot-down of civilian planes in 1996.

[00:00:28]The two brothers to the rescue aircraft had departed from Florida and were part of a group that flew missions supporting Cubans trying to leave the island. The Cuban Air Force shot down both planes over international waters killing four Cuban Americans. NBC News reports a grand jury has already returned an indictment though the specific charges had not been made public. Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche is expected to take part in today's announcement in Miami, home to one of the country's largest Cuban American communities. The case surfaces as the United States continues to increase pressure on Cuba's government. The island has faced deep economic struggles including fuel shortages, repeated blackouts, and growing poverty. Just last week CIA Director John Ratcliffe traveled to Cuba and met with officials from the country's Interior Ministry where he said the US was prepared to engage in security and economic issues.

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