Mexico City, Mexico – US officials downplayed the significance of four Russian naval vessels arriving in Cuba for military drills on Wednesday.
The visit of the vessels – including a nuclear-powered submarine and a frigate – is seen as a display of force amid tensions between Moscow and the West over the conflict in Ukraine. The ships are currently anchored at the Havana Bay, about 90 miles from Florida in the United States.
The Pentagon stated that while they take the situation seriously, they do not perceive the exercises as a threat to the United States. Press Secretary Sabrina Singh noted that the Russian actions align with routine naval visits seen under different US administrations.
According to Russia’s defense ministry, the Admiral Gorshkov frigate and Kazan submarine carry advanced weaponry, including hypersonic missiles called Zircon. These vessels previously conducted missile exercises in the Atlantic.
Cuba’s foreign ministry confirmed that none of the Russian ships harbor nuclear arms and that their five-day visit does not pose a threat to the region. US officials are closely monitoring the situation, with the US Navy deploying sea drones to track the Russian vessels as they approached Cuba.
On a grey morning, the Russian ships entered Havana Bay to a 21-gun salute, accompanied by smaller support vessels. Russia’s defense minister characterized the visit as unofficial, allowing crews to rest and explore local attractions.
Recent tensions over Russia’s invasion of Ukraine have heightened scrutiny on these drills. The timing of the exercise, alongside historic ties between Russia and Cuba, has sparked interpretations of Moscow’s intentions as a form of intimidation towards the US.
The presence of the warships serves as a symbolic gesture of support to Cuba’s government and its ally, Venezuela. The visit, though appearing routine on the surface, unfolds amidst a backdrop of global hostilities, enhancing its significance in the current geopolitical landscape.