Three Russian warships have recently arrived in Cuban waters, marking Moscow's second maritime voyage to the region in as many months. The naval group, comprising a training ship, patrol frigate, and refueling tanker, is scheduled to stay docked in Havana's port until August 30. This deployment follows a previous visit by a squadron of Russian warships, including a nuclear-powered submarine, for military exercises last month.
American officials monitored the mid-June military exercises closely, noting that the four-vessel group posed no significant threat. Experts viewed the warships' presence in the Caribbean as a symbolic display of strength in response to ongoing U.S. and Western support for Ukraine.
Cuban defense authorities announced the latest port call, describing it as a historical practice and a demonstration of friendship and collaboration between the two nations. However, neither government provided details on the purpose of this recent deployment.
The arrival of the Russian flotilla has generated excitement among the public, with Cuban residents flocking to the port to catch a glimpse of the warships. Authorities have indicated that interested visitors will be allowed on board the Russian training ship, named Smolny, on Sunday and Monday.
Russia has longstanding alliances with Venezuela and Cuba, with its warships and aircraft occasionally venturing into the Caribbean and making stops in Havana. While Cuba may not be a central focus of Russian foreign policy, experts suggest that Russia views the island nation as strategically important due to its influence among developing countries.
Both Cuba and Russia, facing severe U.S. sanctions, have deepened their political and economic cooperation in recent years. Moscow seeks diplomatic backing for its actions in Ukraine, while Havana pursues economic assistance. Cuba has refrained from taking a stance on U.N. resolutions regarding the Ukraine conflict and has avoided criticizing Russia's involvement. In return, Russia has supplied Cuba with significant amounts of oil to help alleviate the impact of the U.S. economic embargo.
