US Pays Nearly $3 Million to 'Havana Syndrome' Victims

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Washington: The US government has paid nearly $3 million in compensation to federal employees affected by Havana syndrome, a mysterious illness that has sickened diplomats, intelligence officers and other officials serving overseas. The payments were made under the HAVANA Act, which provides financial support to those diagnosed with qualifying brain injuries.

The largest individual payment was about $497,000, while several other victims received six-figure sums. More than 40 claims have been approved so far, though dozens of applications remain under review.

Havana syndrome was first reported in Havana, Cuba, in 2016, when US diplomats began experiencing symptoms including severe headaches, dizziness, hearing problems, memory loss, balance issues and other neurological disorders. Similar cases were later reported in countries including China, Germany, Austria, Colombia, Vietnam, India, Russia and Serbia.

Despite years of investigations, US intelligence agencies have not reached a definitive conclusion on what causes the illness. While some researchers have suggested directed-energy or microwave devices as a possible explanation, official reviews have found no conclusive evidence that a foreign adversary was responsible.