Cuban-American attorney Willy Allen declared on Wednesday that there are no legal or operational hurdles preventing U.S. special forces from apprehending Raúl Castro in Havana "tonight," following the U.S. Department of Justice's formal charges against the former Cuban leader for his alleged role in the 1996 downing of Brothers to the Rescue aircraft.
Allen stated, during an interview with Tania Costa, "Right now, tonight, there's nothing stopping an American tactical team from heading to Havana to capture Raúl."
The attorney was unequivocal, emphasizing that with the formal indictment, Castro is now a fugitive: "At this moment, he is a fugitive from U.S. law."
Potential Extradition and Past Precedents
Allen dismissed the notion that a potential escape to Russia or China would shield the former Cuban leader: "It doesn't matter if he flees to Russia or China. The American government can request his extradition to the United States, regardless of his destination."
He referenced the cases of Manuel Antonio Noriega in Panama and Nicolás Maduro in Venezuela as instances of foreign leaders being captured or extradited at Washington's behest. Allen also mentioned the extradition, trial, and subsequent pardon of a former Honduran president in the U.S.
Military Surveillance and Plans
Regarding a military operation, Allen disclosed rumors suggesting that U.S. armed forces have been closely monitoring Cuba. "There are rumors that the American military has been watching Cuba closely, using satellites, drones, whatever means necessary," he revealed.
The lawyer expressed confidence in the existence of a detailed plan within the Pentagon. "I have no doubt that, even before the Miami Federal Prosecutor issued this arrest warrant, the military sector in the United States already had a team planning it," Allen said.
However, he clarified that the real question is not technical but political. "The issue is when or if they will execute it. That's the current dilemma."
Formal Charges and Political Reactions
The formal charges, announced on Wednesday at Miami's Freedom Tower by Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche, encompass four counts of murder, destruction of civilian aircraft, and conspiracy to kill U.S. citizens, offenses that carry the death penalty in federal courts.
Donald Trump hailed the announcement as "a great day" for the Cuban-American community, while Miguel Díaz-Canel dismissed the charges as a "political action without legal basis."
On a personal note, Allen—who lived for over 20 months under the regime before going into exile in 1960—expressed contentment with the news, recalling his family's suffering during the Bay of Pigs invasion and the years of repression. "I hope they don't sleep well tonight. Wonderful," he remarked.
Understanding the Legal Implications of Raúl Castro's Indictment
Why is Raúl Castro considered a fugitive under U.S. law?
Raúl Castro is considered a fugitive because the U.S. Department of Justice has issued a formal indictment against him, making him subject to capture for alleged crimes against U.S. citizens.
What are the implications of the indictment for U.S.-Cuba relations?
The indictment could further strain U.S.-Cuba relations, as it involves high-profile legal action against a former Cuban leader, potentially leading to diplomatic tensions.
What are the charges against Raúl Castro?
Raúl Castro faces charges including four counts of murder, destruction of civilian aircraft, and conspiracy to kill U.S. citizens. These charges carry severe penalties, including the death penalty.