US officials have downplayed the significance of four Russian Warships naval vessels arriving in Cuba on Wednesday for military exercises. The fleet, which includes a nuclear-powered submarine and a frigate, is perceived as a demonstration of strength amid ongoing tensions between Moscow and the West over the conflict in Ukraine. The ships are anchored in Havana Bay, approximately 90 miles (145 km) from the Florida coast.
While acknowledging the situation, the Pentagon stated, “We of course take it seriously, but these exercises don’t pose a threat to the United States.” Press secretary Sabrina Singh noted that such activities align with “routine naval visits that we’ve seen under different administrations.”
According to Russia’s defense ministry, the Admiral Gorshkov frigate and the Kazan submarine are equipped with advanced weaponry, including Zircon hypersonic missiles, and had previously conducted missile drills in the Atlantic. However, Cuba’s foreign ministry asserted that none of the vessels carry nuclear weapons, and their five-day visit poses no threat to the region.
US officials are closely monitoring the situation. Reports from CBS, a US partner of the BBC, indicate that the US Navy deployed sea drones to track the Russian ships as they approached Cuba.
The Russian vessels entered Havana Bay early in the morning under overcast skies, accompanied by smaller support ships and were greeted with a 21-gun salute. In a statement, Russia’s defense minister described the visit as unofficial, allowing the crews to “rest and get acquainted with local attractions.”
Historically, Russia has sent warships to Cuba, and the two countries share a longstanding alliance. However, the timing of these exercises is notable due to heightened tensions following Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Some interpret this move as a form of saber-rattling by Moscow, conveying a clear message to Washington regarding perceived interference in their sphere of influence.
The visit serves as a significant symbol of support for Cuba’s communist government and its socialist ally, Venezuela, which may be the warships’ next destination after their stay in Havana. While the visit might be considered routine, the broader context of global hostilities is anything but ordinary.
