Anna Hartz
For nearly a decade, strange and troubling health problems have followed American diplomats and intelligence officers around the world.
The cases have raised questions inside the U.S. government and fear among those serving overseas. What began as a medical mystery has slowly turned into a national security concern.
Components From Russia
According to reports cited by CBS News, the United States has now tested a secret device believed to be linked to these incidents, commonly known as Havana Syndrome, writes Digi24. The device was obtained by the Department of Homeland Security during an undercover operation at the end of 2024. It is small enough to fit in a backpack and emits radiofrequency electromagnetic radiation. Some of its components are believed to come from Russia.
Pentagon tests suggest the device can recreate symptoms reported by victims. These include dizziness, fatigue, memory loss, vision problems, nausea, migraines, and a feeling of pressure in the head. Many people also described ringing or popping sounds in their ears. Some said they heard a sharp and painful noise that stopped when they moved to another room or location.
The first known cases appeared in 2016 among U.S. embassy staff in Havana, Cuba. Since then, more than 1,500 American officials and family members have reported similar problems. Those affected include diplomats, CIA officers, FBI agents, military personnel, and White House staff. Incidents have been reported in dozens of countries and inside the United States.
Abnormal Health Incidents
One former CIA analyst said the effects were so severe that she could no longer work. Others shared similar experiences of long-term health damage and frustration over the lack of clear answers.
In 2017, a U.S. security officer stationed in Guangzhou, China, reported hearing strange mechanical sounds in his apartment. The noise appeared repeatedly above his child’s crib. Shortly afterward, he and his wife became ill. He believes the attack was deliberate and used microwave-based technology.
The U.S. government officially refers to these cases as abnormal health incidents. For years, officials avoided naming a cause. Some experts pointed to sonic weapons or microwave energy. Many victims believe they were targeted by a directed energy weapon.
In 2024, a Pentagon investigation concluded that Russia was likely behind a global campaign aimed at U.S. personnel. Earlier intelligence reports had dismissed that possibility. Several agencies have since revised their views. Members of Congress now say it is increasingly likely that a foreign power was involved.
Former intelligence officers argue that earlier assumptions were wrong. They say the discovery and testing of this device change the entire picture.
Sources: Digi24
