politics
U.S. Preparing to Indict Cuba's Raúl Castro Over 1996 Plane Downing
The U.S. is moving to indict Raúl Castro, Cuba's former president, in connection with the downing of planes 30 years ago. Officials familiar with the plans confirmed the step. CBS News reported the development on May 16, 2026.
May 15, 9:17 AM·1m read1 source
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The U.S. is preparing to indict Raúl Castro, Cuba's former president, according to officials familiar with the plans. The charges would relate to the downing of two planes 30 years ago. CBS News reported the development. Officials said the move centers on an incident in which Cuban forces shot down two civilian aircraft.
The event took place in 1996. No further details about the planned indictment have been released. The development comes as one of several long-standing points of contention between the United States and Cuba. Raúl Castro previously served as Cuba's president after his brother stepped down from the role.
Background on the 1996 Incident The two planes were brought down by Cuban military action during a period of heightened tensions. The aircraft have been described in prior accounts as civilian planes. Officials have not disclosed additional specifics about the planned charges or timing.
The U.S. has maintained various policies toward Cuba since the incident. The sources spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss the ongoing deliberations.
