TENSE

Report: U.S. to Expel Cuban Diplomats Over Sonic Attacks

At least 25 U.S. personnel in Havana have fallen ill after hearing high-pitched sounds.

The U.S. will expel nearly two-thirds of Cuban diplomats from their embassy in Washington, following a series of mysterious sonic attacks on U.S. personnel in Havana, McClatchy reports. Victims of the attacks, who are believed to number at least 25 U.S. personnel, followed reported hearing high-pitched noises, which quietly led to hearing loss, brain injury, and illness. One U.S. official told McClatchy the expulsion of Cuban officials was “reciprocity” for the attacks. The Associated Press reports the attacks have appeared to target U.S. spies in Havana. The U.S. has been unable to identify the device causing the attacks, and has not accused the Cuban government of being behind them. On Friday, the U.S. announced it was withdrawing all nonessential staff from its embassy in Havana.