The crew of the Cutter Pablo Valent from the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) repatriated a Cuban migrant this Wednesday, following an interception of an illegal migration attempt 12 miles south of Key Largo, Florida. The migrant was detained by a vessel from the Customs and Border Protection Air and Marine Operations (CBPAMO), adding to the increasing cases of migrants risking their lives in maritime journeys to reach the United States.
This incident occurs in an alarming context of the Cuban migration crisis. So far in the fiscal year 2024, more than 65,911 Cubans have been intercepted by U.S. authorities either at sea or near the coast. Despite the efforts of U.S. authorities to discourage these dangerous voyages, many migrants continue to take to the sea, driven by desperation and lack of opportunities in Cuba.
Recent figures from the CBP indicate that the total number of Cubans attempting to reach the United States by sea and land has already exceeded 208,000 people during this fiscal year, which began in October 2023 and will end in September 2024. This figure includes not only those intercepted during maritime journeys but also those who reached the southern border of the country, making it the second year with the highest number of Cuban migrants since 2021.
This week, 43 Cubans were detained after disembarking in the Florida Keys, specifically on Sombrero Beach in Marathon. They attempted to enter the country aboard a fishing vessel registered in Havana but were quickly captured by the Border Patrol. The Cuban migration crisis continues to generate concern both in the United States and on the island, and authorities continue to warn about the deadly risks of taking to the sea in search of a better future.
Frequently Asked Questions about Cuban Maritime Migration
In light of the recent interception of a Cuban migrant near the Florida Keys, here are some frequently asked questions about the ongoing Cuban maritime migration crisis.
Why are so many Cubans attempting to migrate to the United States by sea?
Many Cubans are driven by desperation and the lack of opportunities in Cuba, prompting them to risk their lives in dangerous maritime journeys to seek a better future in the United States.
What measures are U.S. authorities taking to prevent these dangerous voyages?
U.S. authorities, including the Coast Guard and Customs and Border Protection, are actively patrolling and intercepting vessels to discourage illegal maritime migration and ensure the safety of migrants.
How many Cuban migrants have been intercepted so far in the fiscal year 2024?
Over 65,911 Cuban migrants have been intercepted by U.S. authorities either at sea or near the coast since the beginning of the fiscal year 2024.
What are the risks associated with these maritime migration attempts?
Migrants face deadly risks including harsh weather conditions, inadequate vessels, and the potential for drowning or being lost at sea.