The nuclear-powered submarine Kazan concluded a military display by the Russian government in Cuba this Wednesday morning. The vessel entered Havana Bay in fourth position, presenting the unusual sight of a submarine alongside the iconic Morro-Cabaña architectural ensemble.
As expected, the spectacle sparked mixed reactions on social media. "A Russian nuclear submarine and three warships entering Havana... the Cuban regime is bowing to Putin's orders and using our ports for this," tweeted Magdiel Castro. On the other hand, some improvised verses inspired by Nicolás Guillén out of sheer excitement over the event.
The K-561 Kazan is a nuclear-powered cruise missile submarine of the Russian Navy's Yasen class. It is deployed with Russia's Northern Fleet and named after the city of Kazan. The Russian naval flotilla arrived in Havana as part of a scheduled visit that has drawn significant geopolitical attention.
Russian Naval Flotilla Makes Grand Entrance
The Pashin fleet tanker led the flotilla, entering the bay shortly after 7 a.m. with Cuban technical support. Following it was the Nikolai Chiker (SB-131) salvage tug from the Northern Fleet's naval group. Third to arrive was the Admiral Gorshkov frigate, the flagship of the Russian Federation Navy, which began an official visit to the island that will last until June 17.
The arrival of these impressive vessels has prompted a flurry of photos from news agencies and Cubans who flocked to the harbor to witness the event, reminiscent of the days when cruise ships from the United States would dock in Havana. Russian diplomats and tourists visiting the island also did not want to miss the display of their country's naval power in Cuban waters.
In response, the United States deployed several warships and a submarine reconnaissance aircraft to monitor the Russian flotilla's course. Last week, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MINREX) of Cuba announced the official visit of several Russian Navy ships to Havana, clarifying that none of the vessels carry nuclear weapons and that their presence does not pose a threat to the region.
Key Questions About the Russian Naval Visit to Havana
The arrival of the Russian naval flotilla in Havana has raised several pertinent questions about its implications and significance. Here are some key questions and answers to help understand the situation:
Why did the Russian naval flotilla visit Havana?
The visit was part of a scheduled official visit by the Russian Navy to Cuba, aimed at showcasing military strength and fostering geopolitical ties between the two countries.
What types of vessels were included in the flotilla?
The flotilla included the nuclear-powered submarine Kazan, the Pashin fleet tanker, the Nikolai Chiker salvage tug, and the Admiral Gorshkov frigate, among others.
Is the presence of these vessels a threat to the region?
According to Cuba's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MINREX), none of the Russian vessels carry nuclear weapons, and their presence does not pose a threat to the region.