History of Havana syndrome in Timeline
Havana syndrome is a controversial medical condition primarily reported by U.S. personnel stationed overseas, particularly diplomats, intelligence officials, and military personnel. Symptoms often begin with a sudden onset, frequently described as resembling a loud, localized sound, followed by lingering issues like cognitive difficulties, balance problems, insomnia, and persistent headaches. The condition first gained attention in 2016 due to reports from U.S. and Canadian embassy staff in Havana, Cuba. However, similar incidents might have occurred earlier in Frankfurt, Germany. From 2016 to 2021, a significant number of U.S. intelligence and military personnel, along with their families, reported experiencing these symptoms in various locations globally, including China, India, Europe, Hanoi, and even within the United States, in Washington, D.C.
1978: Study Finds No Adverse Health Effects from Moscow Signal
A 1978 study found no adverse health effects from the Moscow Signal, a powerful microwave transmission.
2014: NSA Report Raises Concerns about Potential Russian Microwave Weapon
In 2014, the NSA authored a report that highlighted concerns about Russia's possible use of a microwave weapon, citing an incident that allegedly caused nervous system damage to an individual. This report, though coming to light later, hinted at Russia's potential capabilities and motives.
2014: NSA Report Reveals Existence of High-Powered Microwave Weapon
In 2014, the NSA reported that a hostile country possessed a high-powered microwave weapon system potentially capable of harming individuals without leaving evidence.
2016: First Cases of Havana Syndrome Reported
In 2016, the first cases of a mysterious illness later dubbed "Havana Syndrome" were reported among U.S. and Canadian embassy staff stationed in Havana, Cuba.
2016: Havana Syndrome Affects U.S. and Canadian Diplomats
In late 2016, American and Canadian diplomatic staff stationed in Cuba began experiencing unusual and unexplained health problems, marking the early cases of what would later be known as "Havana Syndrome".
2016: Zika Virus Outbreak in Cuba
The Zika virus outbreak in Cuba occurred from 2016 to 2017.
August 2017: Reports of Health Problems Among Diplomats in Cuba Surface
In August 2017, reports began to emerge about American and Canadian diplomatic personnel in Cuba experiencing unusual and unexplained health issues. These incidents were retrospectively dated back to late 2016.
August 2017: U.S. Expels Cuban Diplomats in Response to Havana Syndrome
In August 2017, the United States took diplomatic action by expelling two Cuban diplomats. This move was a direct response to the ongoing Havana Syndrome situation and reflected a belief in Cuban responsibility for the incidents.
September 2017: U.S. Embassy in Havana Placed Under "Ordered Departure Status"
In September 2017, in response to the escalating Havana Syndrome situation, the U.S. State Department placed its embassy in Havana under "ordered departure status," significantly reducing staff presence and signaling the seriousness of the health concerns.
September 2017: Havana Syndrome Case in Uzbekistan Discounted
In September 2017, a USAID employee in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, reported experiencing Havana Syndrome-like symptoms. However, the U.S. State Department discounted the report.
October 2017: President Trump Publicly Blames Cuba for Havana Syndrome
In October 2017, President Donald Trump publicly accused Cuba of being responsible for the Havana Syndrome incidents, characterizing them as a "very unusual attack." This statement marked a significant escalation in the U.S. government's stance on the issue.
December 2017: Marc Polymeropoulos Incident
In December 2017, Marc Polymeropoulos, a CIA officer, experienced a debilitating incident in Moscow, later attributed to Havana Syndrome.
December 2017: CDC Launches Investigation into Havana Syndrome
In December 2017, prompted by a request from the State Department, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention initiated a comprehensive investigation into the mysterious events in Cuba. This investigation, dubbed the "Cuba Unexplained Events Investigation," marked a significant step in unraveling the enigma surrounding Havana syndrome.
2017: Canadian Diplomats Affected by Havana Syndrome Face Ongoing Health Issues
Throughout 2017, several Canadian diplomats who experienced Havana Syndrome in Cuba continued to grapple with significant health problems, highlighting the long-term impact of the mysterious illness.
2017: Havana Syndrome Spreads Beyond Cuba
Starting in late 2017, reports of suspected Havana Syndrome cases began to emerge from various locations around the world, expanding beyond Cuba to countries like Russia, Georgia, Poland, Taiwan, and Australia.
2017: Cuban Scientists Suggest Jamaican Field Crickets as Source of Sounds
In 2017, Cuban scientists proposed that Jamaican field crickets could be the source of the distinct sounds captured in recordings associated with Havana syndrome.
2017: U.S. State Department Investigates Havana Syndrome
In 2017, the U.S. State Department initiated an investigation into the health problems reported by diplomats in Cuba. While they concluded that the symptoms were likely the result of an attack or exposure to an unknown device, they refrained from assigning blame to the Cuban government or any other specific entity.
January 2018: Accountability Review Board Convened for Havana Syndrome
In January 2018, then-Secretary of State Rex Tillerson ordered the formation of an accountability review board to investigate the security incidents related to Havana Syndrome cases involving U.S. diplomatic personnel.
March 2018: Ultrasound Theory for Havana Syndrome
In March 2018, Kevin Fu and a team of computer scientists from the University of Michigan proposed a theory suggesting that ultrasound, potentially originating from malfunctioning or improperly placed Cuban surveillance equipment, could be the source of the reported sounds associated with Havana Syndrome.
March 2018: Functional Disorder Proposed as Potential Explanation for Havana Syndrome Symptoms
In March 2018, a JAMA editorial put forward the possibility of a functional disorder, specifically persistent postural-perceptual dizziness, as a plausible explanation for some of the symptoms observed in diplomats stationed in Cuba. This perspective offered an alternative viewpoint amidst the ongoing investigations.
March 2018: Canadian Diplomats Seek Medical Consultation in Pittsburgh
In March 2018, a group of Canadian diplomats affected by Havana Syndrome traveled to Pittsburgh to consult with a neurologist who had previously diagnosed brain abnormalities in U.S. diplomats experiencing similar symptoms.
March 2018: University of Pennsylvania Publishes Preliminary Findings on Havana Syndrome
In March 2018, researchers from the University of Pennsylvania, upon the U.S. government's request, published their preliminary findings in JAMA on their examination of diplomats affected in Havana. The study revealed no evidence of white matter tract abnormalities but pointed to a new syndrome resembling persistent concussion. It highlighted that while some individuals recovered quickly, others experienced symptoms for extended periods, suggesting injury to widespread brain networks.
March 2018: U.S. Extends Staff Reductions at Havana Embassy
In March 2018, the U.S. State Department announced the indefinite extension of staff reductions at its embassy in Havana. This decision, which maintained the embassy under "ordered departure status," aimed to minimize potential exposure to Havana Syndrome for U.S. personnel.
April 2018: Havana Syndrome Impacts U.S. Diplomats in China
In April 2018, an American diplomat in Guangzhou, China, reported experiencing Havana Syndrome symptoms, marking the first reported incident in the country.
May 2018: Secretary Pompeo Confirms Havana Syndrome Cases in China
In May 2018, U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo confirmed that U.S. diplomatic staff in Guangzhou, China, had reported experiencing symptoms consistent with those reported in Cuba.
June 6, 2018: New York Times Reports on Havana Syndrome in Guangzhou
On June 6, 2018, The New York Times published a report about at least two U.S. diplomats stationed at the U.S. consulate in Guangzhou, China, who were evacuated due to experiencing Havana Syndrome symptoms. The report also highlighted alternative theories for the illnesses.
June 2018: U.S. Expands Health Warning on Havana Syndrome in China
Following a series of reported Havana Syndrome cases, the U.S. State Department expanded its health warning to include all of mainland China in June 2018. The warning advised individuals experiencing specific sensory phenomena to avoid seeking out the source.
June 2018: Number of Affected American Citizens Rises to 26
By June 2018, the number of American citizens reporting symptoms consistent with Havana Syndrome had risen to 26, indicating a growing concern.
November 2018: FBI Investigation Hindered by Interagency Conflict and Privacy Rules
In November 2018, reports surfaced about the FBI's investigation into the Havana syndrome incidents being hampered by conflicts with the CIA and the State Department. The CIA's reluctance to share information, even with other U.S. government agencies, due to concerns about leaks, and federal regulations protecting employee medical records, created obstacles in the investigative process.
December 2018: Canadian Government Reduces Embassy Staff in Havana After 14th Diplomat Reports Symptoms
In December 2018, a 14th Canadian diplomat reported experiencing symptoms of Havana Syndrome, prompting the Canadian government to further reduce its embassy staff in Havana.
2018: Microwave Theory Gains Traction as Possible Explanation for Havana Syndrome
During 2018, microwaves emerged as a principal suspect in the quest to explain Havana syndrome. Douglas H. Smith, a key figure in the University of Pennsylvania study, suggested microwaves as a potential cause. Beatrice Alexandra Golomb's research further fueled this theory, drawing parallels between the reported symptoms and the known effects of pulsed radiofrequency/microwave radiation exposure. The historical context of the "Moscow Signal," a suspected Soviet microwave weapon, further strengthened this line of inquiry.
2018: Scientists Challenge Microwave Hypothesis as Implausible
As early as 2018, prominent scientists including Peter Zimmerman, Kenneth R. Foster, Andrei G. Pakhomov, and Robert Baloh voiced their skepticism about the microwave theory, deeming it implausible. Their dissent added another layer of complexity to the unfolding narrative.
2018: CDC Report on Havana Syndrome
The CDC conducted an investigation in 2018 and developed a case definition for Havana Syndrome, characterizing it as a biphasic syndrome.
2018: JASON Analyzes Recordings and Videos, Concludes Sounds Likely Caused by Insects
In 2018, the JASON group conducted an analysis of audio recordings and videos related to Havana syndrome incidents. They determined with high confidence that the sounds were most likely produced by insects, specifically the Indies short-tailed cricket, and not by directed energy weapons.
2018: State Department Mishandling of Havana Syndrome Revealed
In 2018, a declassified State Department report revealed that the department mishandled the initial reports of Havana Syndrome, highlighting a lack of organization and excessive secrecy in their response.
January 2019: Study Identifies Indies Short-Tailed Cricket as Source of Havana Syndrome Sounds
In January 2019, a study conducted by Alexander L. Stubbs and Fernando Montealegre-Z provided further evidence linking the sounds associated with Havana syndrome to the Indies short-tailed cricket. Their analysis, based on recordings from Cuba, corroborated earlier findings. While their research focused solely on the auditory aspect, they emphasized the need for more comprehensive investigations into the health problems, including potential psychogenic and physiological factors.
February 2019: Canadian Diplomats Sue Government Over Handling of Havana Syndrome
In February 2019, a group of Canadian diplomats who had been affected by Havana Syndrome filed a lawsuit against the Canadian government. They alleged that the government failed to adequately protect them from potential harm and did not respond promptly or appropriately to their serious health concerns.
February 2019: RCMP Faces Challenges Investigating Havana Syndrome Due to Unknown Cause
By February 2019, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) acknowledged significant challenges in their investigation into the Havana Syndrome cases. The lack of a clear understanding of the syndrome's cause hindered their ability to conduct a thorough investigation.
May 2019: Havana Syndrome Symptoms Reported at London Hotel
In late May 2019, three White House staffers reported experiencing Havana Syndrome-like symptoms while staying at the InterContinental London Park Lane hotel.
July 2019: JASON Report Links Havana Syndrome Sounds to Insects, Casts Doubt on Microwaves
In July 2019, Reuters reported on the findings of the JASON group, which, at the behest of the U.S. government, had analyzed recordings from Havana syndrome incidents. Their analysis pointed to insects as the most likely source of the sounds, effectively challenging the microwave theory. However, proponents of the microwave theory, like James Lin, argued that sound recorders couldn't capture microwaves, rendering the analysis incomplete. Despite the uncertainty surrounding the cause, the report acknowledged the potential role of psychogenic effects in the reported injuries.
November 2019: Canadian Government Denies Negligence in Havana Syndrome Lawsuit
In November 2019, the Canadian government formally responded to the lawsuit filed by diplomats affected by Havana Syndrome. They denied any negligence in their duty of care towards their employees and maintained that they had acted appropriately based on the information available at the time.
December 2019: CDC Concludes Two-Year Investigation into Havana Syndrome
In December 2019, the CDC concluded its two-year investigation into the Havana syndrome cases. The final report, classified as "for official use only," compiled and analyzed the medical records of 95 U.S. diplomats and their family members who had reported symptoms during their time in Havana.
2019: White House Official Reports Havana Syndrome Symptoms
In 2019, a White House official reported experiencing symptoms consistent with Havana Syndrome while walking their dog in a Virginia suburb of Washington, D.C.
2019: Mass Psychogenic Illness Proposed as Explanation for Havana Syndrome
In 2019, a paper authored by Robert Bartholomew and Robert Baloh presented mass psychogenic illness as a more plausible explanation for Havana syndrome than a novel medical condition. They contended that the inconsistencies in reported symptoms, coupled with the stressful environment following the reopening of the U.S. embassy in Cuba, could have contributed to the development of the syndrome.
2019: U.S. Government Suspects Foreign Attacks
In 2019, some U.S. government representatives began attributing the Havana Syndrome incidents to potential attacks by unidentified foreign actors.
2019: Marc Polymeropoulos Retirement
Marc Polymeropoulos retired from the CIA in 2019 after struggling to get the agency to acknowledge and treat his Havana Syndrome symptoms.
April 2020: U.S. Office of Special Counsel Investigation
In April 2020, a U.S. Office of Special Counsel investigation found "substantial likelihood of wrongdoing" by the State Department in its handling of the Havana Syndrome incidents.
October 2020: Internal Disputes Over Havana Syndrome Cause and Handling Come to Light
October 2020 saw reports of clashes between U.S. diplomats, intelligence officials, and Trump administration appointees over the Havana syndrome. The New York Times revealed disagreements about the nature, causes, and handling of the suspected attacks, including skepticism from CIA director Gina Haspel regarding Russia's involvement. The State Department was also criticized for inconsistent assessments and lack of transparency.
November 2020: Havana Syndrome Incident Near White House
In November 2020, a Havana Syndrome-like incident was reported on The Ellipse, a lawn area south of the White House, raising concerns about the possibility of such incidents occurring on U.S. soil.
December 2020: NASEM Report on Havana Syndrome
In December 2020, a National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine (NASEM) report identified directed pulsed RF energy as the most plausible cause for Havana Syndrome, though stressing the need for further investigation.
December 2020: DoD Task Force Formation
In December 2020, the Defense Department formed a task force to investigate Havana Syndrome due to frustration with the CIA and State Department's response.
December 2020: CIA Task Force Formation
The CIA established a task force in December 2020 to investigate the increasing reports of Havana Syndrome among its officers.
2020: NASEM Report on Pesticides and Infectious Diseases
The 2020 NASEM report found it unlikely that high exposure to pesticides or infectious diseases like the Zika virus, prevalent in Cuba in 2016-2017, caused Havana Syndrome.
2020: NASEM Report on Psychological Factors
The 2020 NASEM report suggested that psychological factors alone were unlikely to have caused Havana Syndrome, though stress-based responses to perceived threats might have played a role.
2020: Speculation on Havana Syndrome Cause Intensifies
Throughout 2020, U.S. officials increasingly pointed to various unidentified technologies as potential causes for the reported symptoms. Speculation often centered around the use of ultrasound or microwave weapons.
2020: 2014 NSA Report Raises Suspicions of Russian Microwave Weapon Use
In 2020, a 2014 NSA report surfaced, detailing suspicions of Russia's use of a microwave weapon against an individual, resulting in nervous system damage. This revelation fueled speculation about Russia's potential involvement in Havana syndrome, given its interest in disrupting U.S. relations with China and Cuba.
2020: Publication of "Havana Syndrome: Mass Psychogenic Illness and the Real Story Behind the Embassy Mystery and Hysteria"
Bartholomew and Baloh's book, "Havana Syndrome: Mass Psychogenic Illness and the Real Story Behind the Embassy Mystery and Hysteria," was published in 2020, arguing for the psychogenic illness theory.
January 2021: Release of the 2018 CDC Report
The 2018 CDC report on Havana Syndrome, obtained through FOIA requests, was released in January 2021. It defined the syndrome, identified presumptive and possible cases, but found no clear cause.
March 2021: State Department Appoints and Loses Coordinator for Havana Syndrome Task Force
In March 2021, the State Department appointed Ambassador Pamela L. Spratlen to lead the task force addressing the incidents. However, she resigned six months later due to workload limitations and criticism over her neutral stance on the syndrome's origin during a meeting with affected employees and Secretary Blinken.
April 2021: Congressional Briefing on Havana Syndrome Incidents
In April 2021, the Defense Department briefed members of the Senate and House Armed Services Committees about Havana Syndrome incidents, including those that occurred near the White House. Despite investigations, the cause and responsible parties remained unknown.
May 2021: Havana Syndrome Cases Reach 130
By May 2021, the number of potential Havana Syndrome cases had risen to 130, impacting personnel from the CIA, U.S. military, and the State Department, as well as their families.
May 2021: The New Yorker Reports on Havana Syndrome Incidents
In May 2021, The New Yorker published an article featuring accounts of Havana Syndrome incidents, including one involving a US military officer and his child experiencing pressure sensations while driving, and a similar incident reported by a CIA officer in the same location.
July 2021: US Intelligence Agencies Establish Panels to Investigate Havana Syndrome
In July 2021, The New York Times reported that the National Security Council, CIA, and Director of National Intelligence formed two panels to investigate the potential causes of and countermeasures for Havana Syndrome, with cleared external scientists granted access to classified intelligence.
July 2021: U.S. Investigates Havana Syndrome Cases in Vienna
By July 2021, the U.S. State Department was actively investigating numerous reports of Havana Syndrome symptoms among U.S. personnel and their families in Vienna, Austria.
August 2021: Havana Syndrome Cases Reported at U.S. Embassy in Berlin
In the months leading up to August 2021, several cases of Havana Syndrome were reported at the U.S. embassy in Berlin, Germany, with some officials requiring medical attention.
August 2021: Havana Syndrome Cases Delay Vice President Harris's Trip
In August 2021, reported cases of Havana Syndrome in Hanoi, Vietnam, resulted in the evacuation of two American diplomats and caused a delay in Vice President Kamala Harris's visit to the country.
September 2021: Havana Syndrome Cases Surpass 200
By September 2021, the number of reported Havana Syndrome cases had increased to over 200, with some investigations suggesting potential links to attacks while others were ruled out.
September 2021: Debate on Havana Syndrome as Potential Attack or Information Theft Attempt
In September 2021, US government analysts debated whether Havana Syndrome represented a deliberate attack or a side effect of technological espionage attempts. CIA Deputy Director Cohen acknowledged progress in the investigation but no definitive conclusions. Reports also emerged about similar ailments experienced by Western diplomats overseas in previous decades, potentially linked to microwave devices. A panel of Cuban scientists disputed the microwave theory, stating that no known energy form could selectively cause brain damage under the described conditions.
September 2021: Havana Syndrome Impacts US Operations Overseas
In September 2021, the BBC highlighted the impact of Havana Syndrome on US overseas operations, with an official calling the investigation into its cause "the most difficult intelligence challenge they have ever faced."
September 2021: CIA Station Chief in Vienna Recalled
The CIA station chief in Vienna was recalled in September 2021 due to concerns about their handling of Havana Syndrome cases, highlighting the seriousness and impact of these incidents on U.S. intelligence operations.
September 2021: Parts of JASON Report Declassified
In September 2021, portions of the JASON report were declassified, providing further insights into their investigation and conclusions.
September 2021: CIA Director's Aide-de-Camp Reports Havana Syndrome Symptoms in India
During a diplomatic visit to India in September 2021, an aide-de-camp accompanying CIA director William J. Burns experienced symptoms consistent with Havana Syndrome.
October 8, 2021: HAVANA Act Signed into Law, Providing Support for Havana Syndrome Victims
On October 8, 2021, President Joe Biden signed the Helping American Victims Afflicted by Neurological Attacks (HAVANA) Act into law. This bipartisan legislation authorized financial assistance from the CIA and the State Department for government personnel suffering brain injuries potentially related to Havana Syndrome. The act's unanimous passage highlighted the growing concern and recognition of the issue.
October 2021: Conflicting Reports on Microwave Weapon Capabilities and Havana Syndrome
In October 2021, an unclassified 2014 NSA report surfaced, indicating that a hostile country possessed a high-powered microwave weapon system potentially capable of causing harm. However, former Los Alamos chemist Cheryl Rofer challenged this, stating the lack of microwave experts on the NAS committee and absence of evidence for such weapons development. Rofer also cited a 1978 study that found no health issues from the Moscow Signal.
October 2021: Havana Syndrome Affects U.S. Personnel in Bogota
In October 2021, several U.S. embassy personnel and their families stationed in Bogota, Colombia, reported developing symptoms consistent with Havana Syndrome.
October 2021: New Havana Syndrome Cases Reported in Berlin
In October 2021, the U.S. embassy in Berlin experienced a resurgence of Havana Syndrome cases, further raising concerns and prompting investigations.
November 2021: Blinken Appoints New Leadership for Havana Syndrome Task Force
In November 2021, Secretary Blinken appointed Ambassador Jonathan M. Moore and retired Ambassador Margaret Uyehara to lead the State Department's Health Incident Response Task Force, addressing Havana Syndrome.
December 2021: National Defense Authorization Act Addresses Anomalous Health Incidents
In December 2021, the U.S. Congress passed the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2022. This act included provisions addressing "anomalous health incidents," commonly known as Havana Syndrome. It mandated the appointment of a senior official to coordinate interagency efforts, required federal agencies to designate specific leads for these incidents, and directed the development of guidance for employees considered vulnerable.
2021: Senate Intelligence Committee Investigates Havana Syndrome
In 2021, the Senate Intelligence Committee, led by Chair Mark Warner and Vice Chair Marco Rubio, collaborated with Burns and the CIA on the Havana Syndrome investigation, holding fact-finding hearings and acknowledging the attacks' debilitating effects, including medically confirmed Traumatic Brain Injury cases.
2021: Expansion of CIA Investigation
Under Director William J. Burns in 2021, the CIA expanded its investigation into Havana Syndrome, appointing a senior officer to lead the effort.
2021: Havana Syndrome Affects Hundreds More
By 2021, several hundred U.S. intelligence and military officials, along with their families, reported experiencing symptoms similar to those initially reported in Havana. These incidents occurred in various overseas locations, including China, India, Europe, and Hanoi, as well as in Washington, D.C.
2021: David Relman's Interview with NPR
David Relman, chair of the NASEM committee, stated in a 2021 NPR interview that pulsed microwave energy was the most plausible explanation for Havana Syndrome but emphasized the lack of concrete evidence and the need for continued research.
2021: Cuba Dismisses Havana Syndrome as "Science Fiction"
In 2021, Cuban scientists publicly dismissed the possibility of Havana Syndrome being a result of an attack, labeling the idea as "science fiction".
2021: CIA Officer Evacuated from Serbia Due to Havana Syndrome
In 2021, a CIA officer stationed in Serbia was evacuated due to suspicions of being targeted in a neurological attack, highlighting the global reach and seriousness of the Havana Syndrome incidents.
2021: Cuban Academy of Sciences Panel Rejects "Mysterious Syndrome" Narrative
In 2021, a panel of 16 scientists affiliated with the Cuban Academy of Sciences and assembled by the Cuban government issued a report challenging the prevailing narrative surrounding Havana Syndrome. They argued that the concept of a "mysterious syndrome" lacked scientific validity and refuted the possibility of directed energy attacks causing the reported symptoms.
2021: Christopher C. Miller's Statement
In 2021, acting Defense Secretary Christopher C. Miller stated that the DoD task force was formed to push the CIA and State Department to take the Havana Syndrome reports seriously.
2021: Cuba Dismisses Havana Syndrome as U.S. Fabrication
In 2021, following a U.S. intelligence report on Havana Syndrome, Cuba vehemently denied any involvement, calling the allegations "science fiction." Cuban officials, including Vice Foreign Minister Carlos Fernandez de Cossio, accused the U.S. of using the health incidents to damage diplomatic relations and tarnish Cuba's reputation.
January 2022: CIA Assessment Finds No Evidence of Global Campaign in Havana Syndrome Cases
In January 2022, the CIA, after reviewing 1,000 cases, released an interim assessment concluding that Havana Syndrome was not a result of a global attack. The assessment found that 976 cases were likely due to natural causes like environmental factors, undiagnosed conditions, or stress. However, it didn't rule out foreign involvement in 24 cases, primarily from Havana.
January 2022: CIA Interim Assessment Downplays Foreign Involvement
In January 2022, the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) released an interim assessment stating that Havana Syndrome was unlikely the result of a sustained global campaign by a hostile power. This assessment significantly downplayed the theory of foreign involvement in the majority of cases.
February 1, 2022: US Intelligence Report Identifies Potential Causes of Havana Syndrome
On February 1, 2022, a declassified US intelligence report suggested pulsed electromagnetic energy and ultrasound as plausible causes for Havana Syndrome, noting the existence of concealable devices capable of producing the observed symptoms.
August 2022: Asadi-Pooya Review Explores Potential Causes
In August 2022, a review article authored by Asadi-Pooya AA delved into the existing scientific literature on Havana Syndrome. This review proposed several potential causes, including directed-energy or radio frequency weapons, functional disorders, psychogenic disease, and exposure to chemicals or neurotoxins.
2022: US Defense Health Agency Introduces Assessment Form for Anomalous Health Incidents
In late 2022, the US Defense Health Agency introduced Form 244, Anomalous Health Incident (AHI) Acute Assessment, to evaluate patients for potential Havana Syndrome cases, reflecting a growing recognition of the issue.
2022: National Defense Authorization Act Addresses Anomalous Health Incidents
In 2022, the National Defense Authorization Act, passed in December 2021, came into effect, prompting various U.S. government agencies to implement measures to address "anomalous health incidents." This included appointing coordinators, establishing internal protocols, and increasing awareness among employees potentially at risk.
March 1, 2023: House Intelligence Committee Report Finds No Evidence of Foreign Weapon Causing Havana Syndrome
On March 1, 2023, the House Intelligence Committee released a report concluding that there was no credible evidence of a foreign weapon causing Havana Syndrome. The report, prepared by seven US intelligence agencies, reviewed thousands of potential cases but acknowledged ongoing scientific debate about the possibility of such a weapon.
March 2023: John Bolton Believes Russia Was Involved in Havana Syndrome but Didn't Brief Trump
Following the release of the March 2023 report, former Trump National Security Advisor John Bolton revealed that he suspected Russia's involvement in the Havana Syndrome incidents early on but didn't inform Trump, believing the president wouldn't accept the theory due to his relationship with Putin.
March 2023: Attorney Mark Zaid Challenges Official Havana Syndrome Report
In March 2023, Mark Zaid, a lawyer representing some Havana Syndrome victims, publicly disputed the official report's findings downplaying the possibility of a foreign attack. He argued that the U.S. government was withholding crucial classified information and insisted that the incidents were either caused by hostile actors or a "horribly wrong" experiment.
March 2023: U.S. Army Funds Controversial Ferret Study for Havana Syndrome Research
In March 2023, a Politico report revealed that the U.S. Army had awarded a $750,000 grant to Wayne State University for a study involving the exposure of ferrets to radiofrequency (RF) waves. The study, aiming to understand the potential neurological effects of RF exposure, sparked criticism from animal rights groups like PETA, who condemned the use of live animals in Havana Syndrome research.
March 2023: U.S. Intelligence Report on Havana Syndrome
In March 2023, a U.S. intelligence report concluded that it was "very unlikely" a foreign adversary was responsible for the Havana Syndrome incidents. Cuba responded by stating the U.S. used the incidents to harm diplomatic relations.
March 2023: U.S. Intelligence Agencies Conclude Foreign Adversary Involvement Unlikely
March 2023 saw the release of an unclassified report representing the consensus of seven U.S. intelligence agencies. This report concluded that available intelligence consistently pointed against the involvement of U.S. adversaries in causing the reported incidents. It deemed the possibility of a foreign adversary's involvement as "very unlikely," further challenging the prevailing theories.
December 2023: Bartholomew and Baloh Suggest "Moral Panic" as Contributing Factor
In December 2023, a review conducted by Bartholomew RE and Baloh RW posited that Havana Syndrome was primarily a health scare fueled by "moral panic." They suggested it was a socially constructed phenomenon encompassing pre-existing health conditions, environmental responses, and stress reactions, all grouped under a single, misleading label.
2023: Government Officials Acknowledge Multiple Potential Causes for Havana Syndrome, Including Environmental and Preexisting Conditions
In 2023, government officials, in an assessment, stated that there was no single explanation for Havana Syndrome, attributing the incidents to various potential causes, including environmental factors, social factors, and preexisting medical conditions. They highlighted the aggressive investigation efforts, which included examining potential environmental factors and technological glitches but ultimately didn't lead to a singular cause.
March 2024: National Intelligence Council Reaffirms Previous Findings on Havana Syndrome
In March 2024, the National Intelligence Council released a report that reiterated the findings of the March 2023 report, further solidifying the stance that foreign adversary involvement in Havana Syndrome was highly improbable.
2024: U.S. Intelligence Report Finds Foreign Adversary Unlikely in Havana Syndrome Cases
On March 1, 2024, a National Intelligence Council report concluded that a foreign adversary was very unlikely to be responsible for Havana Syndrome. The report, aligning with previous assessments, highlighted the lack of concrete evidence linking the health incidents to hostile foreign actions. The report, reflecting the official U.S. stance, proposed that environmental factors, pre-existing medical conditions, or common illnesses were more plausible explanations than a directed energy attack.
2024: Investigative Report Links Havana Syndrome to Russian Military Unit
On March 31, 2024, an investigative report by The Insider, 60 Minutes, and Der Spiegel linked Havana Syndrome to potential actions of Russia's GRU Unit 29155, a military intelligence unit notorious for covert operations. The report claimed that members of this unit received recognition for their work on "non-lethal acoustic weapons," and their phone and travel records correlated with the locations and timing of Havana Syndrome cases globally.