Russian warships sailed into Cuba’s major harbor on Wednesday, and scores of Havana residents gathered to see them. Disputes between Russia and the US have recently escalated, and this naval show of force by Moscow is a transparent effort to flex their muscles. Cuba is uncomfortably near to the United States, being situated only around 150 kilometers away. Tensions between the two nations have persisted for many years.
According to Cuban officials, the flotilla is just participating in an ordinary naval tour. Meanwhile, in the Caribbean, the ship’s crew will participate in military drills. According to analysts, Russian officials have said that they desire to show off their naval might right near the US.
The decision by President Joe Biden to authorize Ukrainian assaults on Russian targets using American weaponry in May exacerbated already-high tensions between the US and Russia. The United States and other Western allies of Ukraine have relaxed restrictions on using their armaments against Moscow, prompting Russian President Putin to threaten retaliation.
Similar to the tense missile crisis, Russian warships being displayed under Cuba’s flag is reminiscent of the 60s and the Bay of Pigs.
A rescue tug, an oil tanker, a nuclear-powered submarine, and a frigate made their way into Havana Bay after practicing in the Atlantic. According to US sources, the ships are expected to remain in the area all summer long, with a possible pit stop in Venezuela.
As a longtime supporter of Cuba and Venezuela, Russia has sent ships and planes into the Caribbean on occasion.
Deterioration of public services, frequent power outages, food and fuel shortages, and rising inflation are all symptoms of Cuba’s most significant economic crisis in decades.
After launching a slew of business collaborations in May, Cuba has recently reached out to Russia for help in luring international investors.
According to Russian officials, Russia and Cuba had $450 million in bilateral commerce in 2022, a threefold increase from the previous year.
