The United States Coast Guard repatriated two Cuban rafters on Monday who were intercepted last week while attempting to reach the Florida Keys.
A statement shared on social media platform X by the 7th District of the USCG indicated that the two migrants repatriated on Monday had been "intercepted during an irregular and illegal maritime migration attempt detected by a CBP AMO [Air and Marine Operations of the Customs and Border Protection] crew south of Marathon on August 20."
Although the statement does not specify, it is possible that these two immigrants were traveling in a vessel detected that day, approximately 58 miles south of Marathon. This information aligns with a USCG statement released on Friday, August 23, which detailed several interception operations and the repatriation of 41 Cubans.
The USCG linked Tuesday's news to the post published on X about the operations, suggesting that both events are related. This situation underscores that the flow of Cuban migrants to the U.S. remains steady, showing no signs of slowing down.
Continued Migration Amid Economic Hardship
Due to the dire living conditions and lack of opportunities caused by the severe economic crisis in Cuba, hundreds of island residents continue to embark on perilous migration attempts, by sea or land, in search of a better future for themselves and their families.
The previous Monday, CBP and USCG agents rescued five Cuban immigrants southeast of Port Everglades who had been adrift at sea for seven days. The rafters required medical attention due to dehydration and exhaustion, common symptoms for those exposed to the harsh maritime environment for extended periods.
This was one of the migrant groups intercepted last week, and the U.S. repatriated a total of 41 individuals to Cuba that Friday.
In July, a tragic incident in Pinar del Río shocked the community when a boat carrying 11 people attempting to escape Cuba capsized. According to unofficial reports, two men survived, and the body of a 20-year-old woman, Ana Elis Gazquez Vargas, from Consolación del Sur, was found. Cuban authorities did not comment on the case.
A total of 15,645 Cubans entered the United States in July, according to the latest monthly report from the Customs and Border Protection. The report specifies that 4,918 migrants from the island arrived in Florida, mostly by sea.
Understanding Cuban Migration to the U.S.
This section addresses common questions about Cuban migration to the United States, providing clarity on the current situation and procedures involved.
Why are Cubans risking their lives to migrate?
Many Cubans are fleeing due to the severe economic crisis, lack of opportunities, and harsh living conditions in Cuba. They seek a better future for themselves and their families.
What happens to intercepted Cuban migrants?
Intercepted Cuban migrants are often repatriated to Cuba by the U.S. Coast Guard. Their attempts are classified as illegal maritime migrations.
How many Cubans entered the U.S. in recent months?
In July alone, 15,645 Cubans entered the United States, with 4,918 arriving in Florida, mostly by sea.