Cuban Government Confirms Deaths of 13 Soldiers

The Cuban government confirmed on Wednesday the deaths of 13 soldiers following an explosion and fire at a military arms depot in Melones, Holguin province, a week prior. The Ministry of the Revolutionary Armed Forces attributed the disaster to an electrical failure caused by a short circuit. Access to the site remains restricted due to hazardous conditions, including toxic gases and structural damage. Over 1,200 residents were evacuated from the area in response to the incident. Cuban leader Miguel Díaz-Canel expressed deep condolences for the fallen soldiers, who were previously reported missing. The government has since released the names of the deceased in a social media statement.