Strengthening Alliances: Russian Warships Command Cuban Waters in Unprecedented Show of Solidarity

Three Russian warships, including a training ship, patrol frigate, and refueling tanker, arrived in Havana’s waters on Saturday for a stay until August 30. This marks Moscow’s second naval visit to Cuba in two months, reflecting increasing ties between the two nations. The arrival comes weeks after another squadron, featuring a nuclear-powered submarine, visited Havana for planned military exercises closely monitored by the U.S. American officials noted that the earlier visit posed no real threat but symbolized Russia’s response to U.S. and Western support for Ukraine.

Cuban defense officials described the latest port call as a “historical practice” and an example of “friendship and collaboration.” The docking of the Russian flotilla has generated public interest, with Cubans flocking to Havana’s port to view the ships. Visitors will be allowed aboard the training ship Smolny on Sunday and Monday.

Russia, a long-standing ally of both Venezuela and Cuba, sees Cuba as strategically important due to its influence among developing nations, even though Cuba is not central to Russian foreign policy. Both nations, heavily sanctioned by the U.S., have strengthened their political and economic relations, with Cuba abstaining from U.N. votes on Ukraine and avoiding criticism of Moscow’s actions. Russia has also sold substantial oil volumes to Cuba, helping the island nation cope with economic challenges under the U.S. embargo.

Original Story https://www.livemint.com/news/world/in-a-show-of-growing-ties-russian-warships-make-a-new-visit-to-cuban-waters-11722106596959.html
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