Russia extended an invitation to Cubans this Wednesday to tour one of its warships docked in the port of Havana. Through a Facebook announcement, the Russian Embassy in Cuba stated that from June 13 to June 15, between 12 PM and 4 PM, Cubans would have the "unique opportunity" to visit the frigate “Admiral Gorshkov.”
"We are pleased to inform you that starting today, the Cuban public can visit the frigate ‘Admiral Gorshkov,’ which is part of the Russian Navy detachment on an official visit to Cuba," the post read. In the images shared, dozens of Cubans can be seen lining up to board the ship, which arrived at the Port of Havana on Wednesday along with the nuclear-powered submarine Kazan, the salvage tug Nikolai Chiker (SB-131), and the fleet tanker Pashin.
The flotilla arrived in the Cuban capital as part of a scheduled visit that will extend until June 17, generating significant geopolitical interest. Although the Cuban Foreign Ministry clarified that none of the ships carry nuclear weapons and that their presence in the country does not pose a threat to the region, the U.S. government stated it is closely monitoring the Russian combat vessels in collaboration with Canada.
This Thursday, an American nuclear submarine arrived at the eastern Guantanamo Naval Base in response to the Russian deployment in western Cuba. In a strategic move, the U.S. Southern Command confirmed the arrival of the fast-attack submarine USS Helena at Guantanamo Bay. They described it as "a routine port visit while transiting through the U.S. Southern Command's geographic area of responsibility, carrying out its mission of global maritime security and national defense," according to a statement on X.
Geopolitical Implications and Responses
Russia will conduct intense naval and aerial activities in the Caribbean, near the United States, culminating in a global Russian naval exercise this fall. The Biden administration stated it is not alarmed by the deployment, noting that Russia has sent ships to the Western Hemisphere annually from 2013 to 2020. The White House clarified that "Russia's deployments are part of routine naval activity," and do not concern the U.S. government, "as they do not pose a direct threat to the United States."
Frequently Asked Questions about Russian Warships in Havana
The arrival of Russian warships in Havana has sparked numerous questions. Here, we address some of the most frequently asked questions regarding this geopolitical event.
Why are Russian warships in Havana?
The Russian warships are in Havana as part of a scheduled visit, which includes public tours of the frigate “Admiral Gorshkov.” This visit is part of Russia's routine naval activities in the region.
Are the Russian ships carrying nuclear weapons?
No, the Cuban Foreign Ministry has clarified that none of the Russian ships carry nuclear weapons, and their presence does not pose a threat to the region.
How is the United States responding to the Russian deployment?
The United States, in conjunction with Canada, is closely monitoring the Russian combat vessels. Additionally, the U.S. Southern Command has deployed the fast-attack submarine USS Helena to Guantanamo Bay as a strategic response.