Cuba-US Shootout: Tensions Rise Over Oil Shipments

0:00On this February 26th, this episode is brought to you by NordVPN, fast, reliable, online privacy. Links in the episode description. Here's what's shaping the UK right now. A shootout between the Cuban Coast Guard and a Florida registered speedboat left four people dead and six injured off Cuba's coast this week. Cuban officials say the boat entered their waters, armed and open fire first, one nautical mile from shore, and via Clara Province. Cuba claims the 10 people aboard were Cuban nationals living in the U.S. plotting terrorist acts with guns, Molotov cocktails and tactical gear. Most had criminal histories and authorities detained the six survivors while seizing weapons and vests from the vessel. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio dismissed Cuba's account, saying the U.S. Homeland Security and Coast Guard will investigate independently. Vice President JD Vance noted he's been briefed and hopes the situation isn't as serious as feared. This clash heightens already tense U.S. Cuba relations amid American efforts to curb oil shipments to the island from Venezuela.

1:06Cuba's key ally. The Trump administration recently seized tankers and ease some oil resale rules to aid Cuban private businesses. As both sides dig into facts, the incident underscores fragile ties and risks of escalation in the region.