Pete Domenici: “I rise to support the conference report of H.R. 927, the Cuban Liberty and Democratic Solidarity Act. I commend Senator…”

“I rise to support the conference report of H.R. 927, the Cuban Liberty and Democratic Solidarity Act. I commend Senator Helms and Congressman Burton for their foresight and fortitude in tackling the Castro regime. On Saturday, February 24, two Cuban MiG fighter jets shot down two civilian, unarmed Cessna aircraft off the coast of Cuba. The Cuban pilots gave the Cessnas no warning. These planes were operated by Brothers to the Rescue, a group based in Miami whose mission is to look for Cuban refugees floating toward the United States. The Havana government has failed to provide proof that the Cessnas were in Cuban airspace, but never mind that. No country has the right to shoot down civilian planes. Cuba even adopted the 1983 international rules stating that there is never a justification for such actions. These planes posed no threat to Cuba's security. They were unarmed on a nonviolent humanitarian mission, and the Cuban Government knew it. To respond with deadly force is a shamelessly cruel act. This is cold-blooded murder and shows Fidel Castro's total disregard for human life as an alleged attempt to enforce Cuban sovereignty. My deepest sympathy goes out to the families and friends of the four pilots killed.”