Havana syndrome: Report links mystery illness to Russian intelligence unit
A report implicates a Russian intelligence unit in the mysterious Havana Syndrome, affecting US diplomats worldwide with symptoms like dizziness.
Investigations by The Insider, Der Spiegel, and CBS's 60 Minutes suggest Russian sonic weapons could be involved, although Moscow denies this. Despite US officials' earlier doubts about foreign involvement, no alternative causes have been provided, raising frustration among affected personnel.
Originating in Havana, Cuba, in 2016—though possibly earlier in Germany—the syndrome has struck over 1,000 American officials, including those from the White House, CIA, and FBI, causing headaches, concentration issues, and intense ear pain.
With many cases still unexplained, US legislation now supports victims, including brain injury compensation.
Speculation centers on directed energy or microwaves from concealed devices, supported by evidence linking Russian military intelligence unit 29155 to the incidents. This unit, purportedly present in various cities coinciding with reported cases, is claimed to have worked on "non-lethal acoustic weapons."
Investigations highlight a "Russia nexus" among victims, with American military investigator Greg Edgreen criticizing the high proof threshold for Russian involvement as avoiding "hard truths."
Despite Kremlin denials and US official skepticism about foreign adversary responsibility, personal accounts, like FBI agent "Carrie's" experience of a forceful ear attack in Florida, underscore the syndrome's severe impact.
US officials pledge to continue investigating these "anomalous health incidents," acknowledging the reality of reported symptoms while maintaining the improbability of foreign adversarial cause.