1996 downing of civilian planes

Federal prosecutors have announced criminal charges against former Cuban President Raúl Castro in connection with the 1996 downing of two civilian planes. The aircraft were operated by Miami-based exiles and were shot down by Cuban military jets. This indictment, brought forth by the Trump administration, is seen as an escalation of pressure on the Cuban government. The incident involved the destruction of planes belonging to the exile group Brothers to the Rescue, which was conducting search missions for rafters attempting to flee Cuba. The shootdown resulted in the deaths of four individuals. The indictment of Raúl Castro, who was a key figure in the Cuban government at the time, brings renewed attention to this tragic event and its implications for international relations and accountability for past actions.