Russia suspected over mystery US illnesses

RUSSIA has emerged as the main suspect behind a spate of mysterious illnesses to afflict American diplomats in Cuba and China, say US officials.

They told NBC News that communications intercepts indicate Moscow was involved but that the evidence was not sufficiently conclusive to publicly blame the Kremlin.

The twist comes at a time of strained relations between the two countries. Donald Trump’s administration has expelled diplomats in response to the poisoning of a former Russian spy in Britain and concerns at attempts to meddle in November’s mid-term elections.

American officials have struggled to work out who or what was behind the health problems first reported at the US embassy in Cuba two years ago. Victims said they heard a high-pitched whine and later suffered headaches, nausea and dizziness among a range of symptoms doctors said resembled brain trauma.

The circumstances led to speculation a sonic weapon had been deployed, although no evidence of such a device was ever found. Last week, a researcher said microwave weapons might be to blame.

Cuban officials, who are conducting their own investigation, have denied involvement.

The State Department said in June it brought a group of diplomats home from China over concern they were suffering from a mysterious malady resembling brain injury.