The U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) has repatriated a Cuban rafter who was detained near the Florida Keys, the governmental agency reported on Tuesday. "The crew of the USCG cutter Kathleen Moore repatriated one migrant to Cuba on Tuesday after intercepting him near Islamorada, Florida, on May 28," the agency detailed on the social media platform X.
Last week, it was reported that the U.S. returned 18 migrants to the island who had been detained at sea. Another group of 26 people faced the same fate a few days earlier after being captured during their journey.
Furthermore, seven rafters who managed to reach land in Key Largo, Florida, were detected and detained by Border Patrol agents in the Miami sector.
Ongoing Migration Crisis
The wave of migrants from the island, primarily heading to the United States either by sea or land, shows no signs of abating. A total of 17,870 Cubans entered the U.S. last April, according to statistics published by the Customs and Border Protection (CBP). This figure brings the total to 144,378 arrivals—excluding May—during the current fiscal year 2024, which began on October 1 of last year. This data underscores the unrelenting mass migration, driven by the prevailing political, economic, and social conditions in Cuba.
As a stark illustration of the peril faced by residents of the Caribbean nation in their quest for a better future, reports emerged on Sunday of a group of seven women and 12 men who were adrift somewhere off the coast of Artemisa and/or Mayabeque, with dwindling supplies. This information has not been confirmed by Cuban authorities.
In addition to Cuban nationals, the Coast Guard has intercepted travelers from Dominican Republic, Venezuela, and Haiti, totaling 1,141 between October 1, 2023, and April 30 of this year.
Frequently Asked Questions about Cuban Migration Crisis
Here are some frequently asked questions regarding the ongoing migration crisis from Cuba to the United States and the role of the U.S. Coast Guard.
Why are so many Cubans migrating to the United States?
Many Cubans are fleeing due to the dire political, economic, and social conditions in Cuba, seeking better opportunities and safety in the United States.
What actions are the U.S. Coast Guard taking to manage this migration?
The U.S. Coast Guard intercepts and repatriates migrants found at sea to prevent dangerous journeys and manage the influx of migrants attempting to reach U.S. shores.
How many Cuban migrants have been intercepted this fiscal year?
As of April 30, 2024, a total of 144,378 Cuban migrants have been intercepted, highlighting the significant scale of the migration crisis.