Untouchable No More—U.S. Slaps Murder Charges on Former Cuban Leader Castro

The 47 Morning Update with Ben Ferguson · May 21, 2026 · 19m

1. Historic Indictment Raúl Castro has been indicted by the U.S. for murder, conspiracy, and destruction of aircraft. Charges relate to the February 24, 1996 incident where Cuban military jets shot down two civilian planes. Four people (including three U.S. citizens) were killed. 2. Allegation of Direct Responsibility Prosecutors claim: The attack was intentional, not accidental. Castro, then Cuba’s Defense Minister, authorized and helped direct the operation. Evidence cited includes: Military communications Intelligence reports Longstanding testimony 3. Delayed Justice The…