Cuba says it will defend itself against any 'aggression' after deadly U.S. boat clash

Cuba vowed to defend itself against "terrorist and mercenary aggression" as more information emerged about the U.S.-based Cuban men accused by the government of "foiled armed infiltration."

Cuba vowed to defend itself against "terrorist and mercenary aggression" as more information emerged about the U.S.-based Cuban men accused by the government of "foiled armed infiltration."

Cuba said its military killed four men and captured six others who were injured after they entered Cuban waters aboard a Florida-registered boat near the island nation's northeastern coast. The Cuban government said they were armed and initiated the firefight.

The country's president, Miguel Díaz-Canel, said Thursday that “Cuba will defend itself with determination and firmness against any terrorist and mercenary aggression that seeks to affect its sovereignty and national stability.”

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Wednesday the U.S. will carry out an independent investigation before it responds, adding they are going to independently verify the information shared by the Cuban government "and reach our own conclusions.”

Family, friends and associates who spoke with NBC and Telemundo about the U.S.-based Cubans involved in the incident said the men were known to be opposed to the Cuban government.