Cubans Gleeful, U.S. Transcript of Attack Shows

February 28, 1996|STANLEY MEISLER | TIMES STAFF WRITER

Basulto identified himself and his organization and told Havana air control that his planes were crossing the 24th Parallel between Florida and Cuba to operate north of Havana. Although Brothers to the Rescue was organized to spot escaping Cubans in danger in the Caribbean, it has previously penetrated Cuban airspace and dropped leaflets attacking Castro.

According to the transcript, Havana told Basulto: "Sir, be informed that the zone north of Havana is activated. [One word unintelligible] you, danger behind 24th Parallel."

Basulto replied: "We are aware that we are in danger each time we cross the area to the south of the 24th, but we are willing to do it as free Cubans."

The transcript does not make clear whether the planes were over Cuban territorial waters when shot down. The Clinton administration has acknowledged that Basulto's plane did penetrate Cuban airspace but has insisted that the two downed Cessnas did not.

Times staff writer Juanita Darling contributed to this report from Havana.

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