US indicts former Cuban President Raúl Castro on drug trafficking and murder charges

The US Department of Justice has indicted former Cuban President Raúl Castro on charges including drug trafficking, murder, and supporting terrorism. The indictment, filed in a Washington DC court, accuses Castro of leading a criminal enterprise that smuggled cocaine into the US and provided safe harbor for Colombian rebels. This is the first time a former head of state has been charged in a US court for actions while in office.

The charges come as the Trump administration escalates pressure on Cuba, reversing the Obama-era thaw in relations. Analysts say the move could pave the way for further US action, including potential sanctions or even military intervention. Critics argue the indictment is politically motivated, while supporters say it holds Castro accountable for decades of alleged crimes.