Russian Military Fleet's Visit to Cuba Concludes
After a five-day visit to the port of Havana, the Russian military fleet has begun its withdrawal. Comprising a nuclear-powered submarine, a frigate, and two logistics ships, the fleet left without disclosing its next movements or docking points in the Caribbean. The departure was confirmed by The Associated Press early on Monday morning.
Close Monitoring by the United States
The United States closely monitored the Russian vessels throughout their stay. Officials denied any potential threat to the region or any transfer of missiles. However, in an apparent counter-move, the USS Helena, a North American submarine, was docked at the Guantánamo Naval Base. Cuba’s Vice Chancellor Carlos Fernández de Cossio condemned its presence, emphasizing that it was uninvited.
600 Km Missile Maneuver Simulation
During their stay, the Russian Ministry of Defense reported that the fleet had completed successful military maneuvers in the Atlantic, simulating a missile attack on targets over 600 kilometers away. The naval group included the frigate "Gorshkov", the nuclear-powered submarine "Kazan", the tanker "Pashin", and the tugboat "Nikolai Chiker". President Miguel Díaz-Canel visited the frigate, further strengthening the bond between the two countries.
The visit underscores the strong political and economic ties between Cuba and Russia, both of which are under US sanctions. Cuba's stance on the Ukraine conflict remains neutral, advocating for peaceful negotiations. The Cuban Ministry of Armed Forces emphasized that the visit was in line with historic friendly relations and international norms.
- The presence of the Russian fleet in Havana garnered significant local interest. Hundreds of people lined up to visit the frigate, which was opened to the public on Thursday and Saturday. The visit included a 21-gun salute, a gesture of respect and diplomacy.
- Meanwhile, the Royal Canadian Navy ship "Margaret Brooke" also passed through Havana's port, highlighting the city's strategic importance for maritime activities. Despite the geopolitical tensions, the Cuban government reiterated that the visit was a routine friendly exchange and posed no danger.
- The tightening US embargo continues to impact Cuba heavily, reinforcing the island nation’s reliance on allies like Russia. The visit of the Russian naval fleet is a testament to the enduring partnership between the two countries, particularly in these politically charged times.
