The administration of Donald Trump has announced criminal charges against former Cuban President Raúl Castro, 94, over his alleged role in the 1996 downing of two civilian aircraft. Washington accuses the former Cuban leader of conspiring to kill American citizens, while Havana has condemned the case as a “despicable political provocation.”

According to U.S. authorities, Raúl Castro was formally indicted on May 20, 2026, on charges including conspiracy to murder U.S. nationals, destruction of aircraft, and homicide in connection with an incident that occurred nearly three decades ago. Prosecutors allege that Castro, who was serving as Cuba’s defense minister at the time, ordered the destruction of two civilian planes operated by the Cuban exile group Brothers to the Rescue.

The attack resulted in the deaths of four individuals, including three American citizens and one U.S. permanent resident. The case has long remained a sensitive issue in relations between the United States and Cuba.

Speaking during a press conference in Miami, acting U.S. Attorney General Todd Blanche stated that the indictment followed a thirty-year investigation and was “not merely symbolic.” He added that President Trump “will not forget American citizens.”

U.S. officials also revealed that the indictment, initially filed under seal on April 23, includes several pilots suspected of participating in the aerial operation. Florida Senator Ashley Moody said Raúl Castro could face a life sentence if convicted.

The announcement comes amid renewed tensions between Washington and Havana. The Trump administration has increasingly portrayed the Cuban government as a threat to U.S. national security and is reportedly preparing additional measures related to the longstanding embargo on Cuba.

Cuban authorities have strongly rejected the accusations. In a statement broadcast on state television, the government described the prosecution as an “odious accusation” and an “infamous political provocation.” Havana maintains that the aircraft were shot down after repeatedly violating Cuban airspace.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio also addressed the Cuban population in a video message, claiming that “the only thing standing in the way of a better future is those who control your country.”

The historic indictment comes as Cuba faces a severe economic and energy crisis, worsened by strained diplomatic relations with the United States and the regional consequences of sanctions affecting Venezuela, one of Havana’s key allies.