The United States Department of Justice has formally brought serious criminal charges against former Cuban President Raul Castro, reigniting tensions between Washington and Havana over a decades-old aviation incident.

According to US prosecutors, the charges are connected to the 1996 shooting down of two civilian aircraft by the Cuban Air Force, an incident that resulted in the deaths of four people. At the time, Raul Castro was serving as Cuba’s defense minister, and American authorities claim the operation was approved at the highest level of the Cuban government.

Now 94 years old, Raul Castro faces allegations including murder, conspiracy to kill American citizens, and destruction of aircraft. Several former Cuban military officials have also reportedly been charged in connection with the same incident.

US President Donald Trump described the indictment as “a very significant moment,” though he dismissed speculation about possible military action against Cuba. He stated that the island nation is already struggling with severe economic and political difficulties.

The Cuban government has strongly rejected the accusations, calling them politically motivated. Officials in Havana insist that the 1996 incident was an act of legitimate national defense aimed at protecting Cuban airspace.

Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel accused Washington of attempting to increase pressure on Cuba and using the case to justify a tougher stance against the communist-led nation.

Political analysts believe the development could further strain the already fragile relationship between the United States and Cuba. Observers also warn that the issue may create renewed geopolitical tensions across Latin America in the coming months.