US Moves to Indict Former Cuban Leader Raúl Castro Over 1996 Shootdown

The United States is preparing to indict former Cuban President Raúl Castro in connection with the 1996 shootdown of two civilian aircraft operated by the humanitarian group Brothers to the Rescue. This development was confirmed by sources familiar with the matter to Fox News Digital and initially reported by CBS News. The potential indictment comes amidst high-level diplomatic engagements, including a recent meeting in Havana between CIA Director John Ratcliffe and Cuban interior ministry officials. During these talks, Ratcliffe conveyed President Trump’s stance that the US is willing to engage on economic and security issues only if Cuba implements fundamental changes. The Trump administration has simultaneously intensified pressure on Havana through expanded sanctions targeting oil suppliers, exacerbating the island's fuel shortages and power outages. While the indictment requires grand jury approval, it signals a significant escalation in US-Cuba tensions. The charges specifically relate to the deadly incident thirty years ago, marking a continued legal and political confrontation between the two nations despite ongoing discussions regarding intelligence cooperation and regional security.