Russian Warships Dock in Havana, Signaling Strengthened Ties with Cuba

Three war vessels from Russia's Baltic Fleet arrived in Havana, Cuba, over the weekend for a four-day visit, marking the second such deployment in less than two months. The ships, including the training vessel Smólny, patrol ship Neustrahimiy, and offshore oil tanker Yelnya, are set to engage in a series of activities, including courtesy visits to Cuban Navy officials and tours of cultural sites. Cuban defense officials hailed the visit as a demonstration of "friendship and collaboration" between the two nations. The arrival of the Russian fleet was celebrated with a cannon salute, drawing public interest as locals flocked to the port to view the ships. Authorities announced that visitors would be allowed on board the Smólny, further enhancing the event's community engagement. This visit follows a previous deployment in June, which included a nuclear submarine and was part of military exercises in the Caribbean, although U.S. officials stated that these maneuvers posed no direct threat. Cuba's relationship with Russia has deepened in recent years, particularly as both nations face U.S. sanctions. Russia has been a crucial ally for Cuba, providing economic support amid the island's ongoing crisis. Reports indicate that Cuba has been sending citizens to fight for Russia in Ukraine, despite previous claims of dismantling recruitment networks. The partnership is underscored by Russia's resumption of oil shipments to Cuba, aimed at alleviating the island's severe fuel shortages.