U.S. Government Acquires Device Linked to 'Havana Syndrome'

In a discreet move towards the end of 2024, the U.S. government obtained a device believed to be linked to the mysterious ailment known as 'Havana Syndrome,' which has affected over 1,500 American personnel since its first reports in 2016, according to sources familiar with the operations who spoke to CBS News.

The Department of Homeland Security's investigative division carried out the secretive purchase utilizing funds from the Department of Defense, totaling well over ten million dollars, insiders reveal. This compact device, small enough to fit in a backpack, includes parts from Russian origins, two informed individuals noted.

For more than a year, the Pentagon has been examining the device, which transmits radio-frequency pulses, trying to determine if it can mimic the effects which were initially associated with incidents involving U.S. intelligence and diplomatic figures in Havana, Cuba. Congress has already been briefed on some results from these investigations over the last year.

The acquisition details were first disclosed by an independent journalist. Despite inquiries, the Department of Defense and Homeland Security have yet to provide any statements, while the CIA also kept silent.

Individuals suffering from Havana Syndrome report symptoms such as severe headaches, vertigo, nausea, and strange auditory sensations. These symptoms have been observed by individuals stationed across the globe, including diplomats and intelligence officers.

Many affected by Havana Syndrome have felt abandoned by their employers, having to cover expensive medical costs themselves while their condition remains unrecognized. This perceived neglect has contributed to feelings of isolation among the victims.

A 2023 assessment from U.S. intelligence concluded that it's unlikely a foreign entity is behind these health incidents, termed 'Anomalous Health Incidents' (AHIs) by the current administration. Subsequently, a 2025 update asserted no significant change in this stance, though two intelligence bodies suggested a foreign power might have developed a related device, but no conclusive link to the incidents was made.

The Director of National Intelligence is finalizing a review of past investigations into the syndrome. Though results are nearly complete, they have not been shared with lawmakers or made public yet.

An ODNI representative confirmed the commitment to eventually release findings related to Havana Syndrome, emphasizing thoroughness and accuracy over rushing the report.

Former senior intelligence officer Marc Polymeropoulos, outspoken about his experiences with similar symptoms in Moscow in 2017, has voiced concerns over what he perceives to be misleading prior investigations. He argues for a comprehensive reevaluation by the intelligence community.