U.S. prosecutors are preparing to indict Raúl Castro, Cuba’s former president and longtime military leader, in connection with the downing of civilian planes about 30 years ago, according to U.S. officials familiar with the matter. The officials, speaking on the condition of anonymity, told CBS News the Justice Department is moving toward charging Castro for his role in the attacks that killed civilians three decades ago.
The possible indictment would focus on the shootdowns of small civilian aircraft in the mid‑1990s that left U.S. and Cuban‑American citizens dead and raised longstanding tensions between Washington and Havana. Prosecutors have been reviewing evidence and legal options, officials said, and are taking steps that could include presenting allegations to a federal grand jury. Details about specific counts, timing or whether the indictment would be sealed were not disclosed by the sources.
An indictment of a former head of state would be highly unusual and would carry significant legal and diplomatic ramifications. Even if charges are filed, securing custody would be difficult: Castro, now elderly, has remained in Cuba and it is unlikely he would travel to a country where he could be arrested. Lawyers and legal experts often note that an indictment can nevertheless serve to document allegations and provide a formal path for future prosecutions or civil claims.
CBS News’ Nicole Sganga reported the developments. The story is based on information from U.S. officials familiar with the plans; CBS News has sought comment from U.S. prosecutors and Cuban authorities. Neither the Department of Justice nor Cuban government spokespeople had provided immediate public responses at the time of reporting.
This remains a developing story. CBS News will update coverage as officials confirm charges, disclose legal filings, or provide additional context about the evidence and potential next steps.