CNN's correspondent in Cuba, Patrick Oppmann, recently boarded the Russian frigate Admiral Gorshkov, which has been stationed in Havana since Wednesday as part of an official visit by a Russian naval fleet to the island.
The journalist, who has been living in Cuba for 12 years, remarked that he has stood in all kinds of lines: for buying food, paying bills, but never imagined he would line up to board a Russian warship. The ships and submarine have sparked considerable interest among Cubans, who wait for hours to board the eye-catching frigate, the only one authorized for public visits.
"The Gorshkov is one of the most modern ships in the Russian fleet, capable of firing hypersonic missiles that travel over 9,600 km/h. It was hard to believe that President Vladimir Putin's prized vessel was open for anyone to see," Oppmann admitted.
Oppmann waited for over an hour under the sun, noting that for many Cubans, the visit of the Russian naval detachment feels like a return to the past.
Before entering, a Cuban Navy officer warned visitors not to bring sharp objects such as knives, scissors, or razors. State security agents in civilian clothes checked the identity card numbers of visitors against a database on their phones. The boarding was done in groups of 20.
"In front of the ship, sailors had placed a sign in English declaring that the 'primary mission' of the Gorshkov was 'combat operations against surface ships and enemy submarines,'" the reporter highlighted.
The tour began at the massive helipad and then moved to the bow, from where the submarine Kazan was visible.
According to Oppmann, every few meters a Russian sailor was on guard, and he noticed they spoke more English than Spanish.
At the front, a sailor demonstrated an anti-missile system equipped with a huge cannon capable of firing projectiles up to 23 kilometers.
"One level up, where there seemed to be sensitive communication equipment, a Russian soldier in tactical gear with an assault rifle by his side watched us," he detailed.
"I disembarked from the Russian warship in Havana with the feeling that the Cold War doesn't seem like such a distant memory," he concluded.
Until this Saturday at 4:00 PM, Cubans can board the ship, a visit arranged by the Russian embassy on the island. Dozens of Cubans are lining up to enter the ship, which arrived at the port of Havana on June 12, accompanied by the nuclear-powered submarine Kazan, the rescue tug Nikolai Chiker (SB-131), and the fleet tanker Pashin.
The visit, which will last until June 17, has generated significant excitement on the island. For Cubans, mired in the worst economic crisis in decades, it is a unique experience as they flock to admire the ships and take photos and videos with the Russian sailors who come ashore.
Key Details on the Russian Warship Visit to Havana
Here are some frequently asked questions about the recent visit of the Russian naval fleet to Havana, focusing on the public's interest, security measures, and the significance of this event.
Why is the Russian naval fleet visiting Havana?
The visit is part of an official tour by the Russian naval fleet to the island, showcasing their military capabilities and fostering diplomatic relations.
What security measures are in place for visitors?
Visitors are warned not to bring sharp objects, and their identity card numbers are checked against a database by state security agents in civilian clothes.
How significant is the Admiral Gorshkov in the Russian fleet?
The Gorshkov is one of the most advanced ships in the Russian fleet, capable of firing hypersonic missiles that travel over 9,600 km/h, making it a significant asset.
How have Cubans reacted to the visit?
The visit has generated immense excitement among Cubans, who are eager to experience something unique and interact with the Russian sailors amidst the nation's economic crisis.