Official announcements or policy changes from the U.S. government

Two U.S. Intelligence Agencies Suggest Foreign Adversary May Have Developed Weapon for Havana Syndrome, Briefing Set for Incoming Trump Administration

Jan 10, 2025, 08:55 PM

Two U.S. intelligence agencies have shifted their stance on the mysterious 'Havana Syndrome,' now suggesting that it's possible a foreign adversary may have developed or deployed a weapon responsible for the reported injuries. This change in assessment comes after a review by seven intelligence agencies, with five concluding that it is very unlikely a foreign adversary was behind the incidents. The two dissenting agencies, however, have indicated a 'roughly even chance' that a foreign actor could have used a novel weapon or prototype device to harm a small subset of U.S. personnel. The symptoms, which include headaches, balance problems, and cognitive issues, were first reported in 2016 by U.S. diplomats in Cuba, leading to the term 'Havana Syndrome.' The National Security Council has stated that it will brief the incoming Trump administration on these findings, emphasizing the need for continued research and care for affected personnel. The Intelligence Community experts panel has suggested that pulsed electromagnetic or acoustic energy remains a plausible explanation in certain cases.