    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: William J. Clinton (1996, Book I)]
    [February 24, 1996]
    [Pages 331-332]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Remarks on the Downing of American Civilian Aircraft by Cuba and an
    Exchange With Reporters in Shoreline, Washington
    February 24, 1996

        The President. Ladies and gentlemen, I have just been briefed by the
    National Security Adviser on the shooting down today in broad daylight
    of two American civilian airplanes by Cuban military aircraft. We are
    continuing to investigate the circumstances of the incident, including
    the airplanes' flight plan and the flight route and what, if any,
    warnings were given.
        This afternoon I ordered the following actions: First, I directed
    the United States Coast Guard units in the area to conduct search and
    rescue operations. That is now underway in the

    [[Page 332]]

    waters off Cuba. Second, I have ordered United States military forces in
    the area to provide support to the search and rescue operations and to
    ensure that it is fully protected. Third, I have instructed our interest
    section in Havana to seek an immediate explanation for this incident
    from the Cuban Government.
        I condemn this action in the strongest possible terms. And as events
    unfold and we know more we will do our best to answer your questions.
        I'd like now to ask Mr. McCurry to come up and either now or
    immediately, I think, when I leave here to do his best to answer
    whatever other questions you have. Obviously, we will be getting further
    information throughout the night, and we'll let you know when we have
    it.
        Thank you.
        Q. Mr. President, the United States does have confirmation on the
    shoot-down?
        Q. Do you know where the planes were when they were shot down?
        The President. We know--I can't say that for sure. I think Mike can
    answer all the questions.

    Note: The President spoke at 5:35 p.m. in the automotive training center
    at Shoreline Community College. The downed aircraft were operated by
    Brothers to the Rescue, a Florida-based emigre group.