USA pays compensation to victims of mysterious diplomats' illness

The United States has begun disbursing compensation to personnel who have experienced the unexplained health incidents known as Havana Syndrome. The Department of Defense announced Friday that initial payments have been made under the Havana Act, a law enacted in October 2021.

Nearly $3 million (approximately 19.7 million Danish kroner) has been paid out so far. The Havana Syndrome first gained public attention in 2016 when U.S. diplomats stationed at the embassy in Cuba reported experiencing unusual symptoms, including hearing strange, sharp sounds at night.

In the years following the initial reports, similar incidents were reported by U.S. diplomats and employees in various locations, including Europe, China, and Washington D.C. Symptoms varied but often included headaches, nosebleeds, and vision problems. While early theories suggested directed energy or microwave attacks, a U.S. intelligence report in early 2025 reportedly concluded that a foreign adversary was unlikely to be responsible.