Intelligence agencies suspect Russia is behind the mysterious attacks on U.S. diplomats in Cuba and China, according to a new report.
Three U.S. officials and two others briefed on an ongoing investigation including the FBI and CIA told NBC News that evidence from signals intelligence has led the U.S. to believe Russia is behind “attacks” starting in late 2016 that led to brain injuries among diplomats.
The evidence is not definitive enough to officially put the blame on Russia, the report said.
Microwaves or another type of electromagnetic weapon are believed to have been used, though it’s not yet conclusive.
More than 20 officials were injured in the mysterious incidents at their homes and hotels in Havana beginning in 2016. The attacks caused brain injuries, hearing loss, and problems with vision, comprehension and balance.
The U.S. originally suspected a sonic weapon had been used after government workers reported hearing strange sounds. The U.S. has since removed most of its diplomats and spies from Cuba.
In China this year, a U.S. worker reported similar symptoms after hearing strange noises. More employees in China are being tested.
“The investigation is ongoing. We have made no determination on who or what is responsible for the health attacks,” State Department spokeswoman Heather Nauert told NBC News.
