Former Cuban President Raul Castro made his first public appearance in Havana on June 6, 2026, since being indicted by the United States on murder charges. The indictment stems from the 1996 downing of two civilian aircraft, an event that led to the deaths of 37 people.

Castro’s appearance occurred at an event commemorating the Interior Ministry, a significant institution within Cuba's security apparatus. The former president, who held power for over a decade before handing over the presidency to Miguel Díaz-Canel in 2018, remains an influential figure in Cuban politics as the first secretary of the Communist Party of Cuba.

The United States Department of Justice announced the indictment against Castro and other Cuban officials in May 2026. The charges relate to the downing of two Brothers to the Rescue planes by Cuban fighter jets. The US government alleges that Castro, in his capacity as commander of Cuba’s armed forces at the time, played a role in the decision to shoot down the planes.

During the Interior Ministry event, Castro was reportedly cheered by attendees, which included military officials and Cuba’s Olympic wrestling champion. This public showing is seen as a defiant gesture in the face of the US indictment, signaling that he remains active and supported within Cuba’s leadership circles.

Cuba has consistently denied US allegations regarding the incident, framing the downing of the planes as a legitimate act of defense against perceived hostile incursions into its airspace. The Cuban government has accused the United States of using such indictments for political purposes to destabilize the island nation.

The US charges represent a significant escalation in diplomatic tensions and legal actions between the two countries. They come at a time when relations between the United States and Cuba have fluctuated, with periods of detente followed by renewed pressure.

Castro's public emergence suggests that the Cuban government does not intend to isolate him due to the US charges. His continued presence at official functions indicates his ongoing influence and the state's support for him, despite the international legal pressure.

It remains unclear how the US indictment will progress, particularly given Castro's status and the complexities of international law and diplomatic relations. The event also highlights the enduring legacy of the 1996 incident and its continued impact on US-Cuba relations.