Three Russian warships arrived in Cuban waters as part of Moscow’s second maritime voyage to the country in as many months, reflecting growing ties between Russia and Cuba. The naval group, which includes a training ship, patrol frigate, and refueling tanker, will be in Havana until July 30. This visit follows a previous squadron of Russian warships that visited Havana last month as part of planned military exercises.
American officials monitored the mid-June military exercises closely, stating that the four-vessel group posed no real threat. Experts believe the warships’ presence in the Caribbean is a symbolic show of strength in response to U.S. and Western support for Ukraine. The arrival of the Russian warships has generated excitement among the Cuban public, with locals visiting the port to observe the vessels. Cuban defense officials described the visit as a historical practice and a display of friendship and collaboration.
Russia has a long-standing alliance with Venezuela and Cuba, with its warships and aircraft occasionally visiting the Caribbean and docking in Havana. While Cuba is not a major player in Russian foreign policy, Russia views the country as strategically important due to its proximity to the United States and influence among developing nations. The strengthened political and economic ties between Russia and Cuba have been evident in recent years, with Moscow providing economic assistance to Havana amid U.S. sanctions. Cuba has refrained from criticizing Russia’s actions in Ukraine and has received oil shipments from Moscow, which have helped alleviate power outages caused by the U.S. economic embargo.
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