China, Russia Criticise U.S. Charges Against Raúl Castro Over 1996 Plane Deaths

China and Russia have pushed back against the United States after Washington brought charges against former Cuban president Raúl Castro in connection with the 1996 downing of two aircraft, an incident that left four people dead.

Moscow and Beijing said the U.S. was relying on coercive pressure against Cuba. The Kremlin described the action as excessive, while China cautioned against the use of threats and sanctions.

The case has emerged as President Donald Trump tightens sanctions and restrictions on Cuba, adding strain to the country’s fuel and food shortages. Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel called the matter politically driven, while U.S. officials said it fits within a wider national security approach.