In less than two months since the presence of Russian combat vessels in Cuba, the Ministry of the Revolutionary Armed Forces (MINFAR) announced on Wednesday that several ships from the Baltic Fleet of Russia will arrive at Havana Bay on July 27.
In an information note published on the social media platform Facebook, MINFAR communicated that the group will comprise the training ship "Smolny," the patrol ship "Neustrashimy," and the high-sea tanker "Yelnya."
"Visits from naval units of other countries are a historical practice of the Revolutionary Government with nations with which we maintain relations of friendship and cooperation," the statement read.
“During their stay in our country, the Russian sailors will participate in a program of activities that includes courtesy visits to the Head of the Revolutionary Navy, the Governor of the capital, as well as tours of historical and cultural sites,” the note continued.
Additionally, the military entity announced that the public will be able to visit the training ship "Smolny" on Sunday, July 28, from 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm, and on Monday, July 29, between 12:00 pm and 6:00 pm.
The Russian presence in Cuban territorial waters comes just weeks after the visit of the frigate "Gorshkov," the nuclear-powered submarine "Kazan," the fleet tanker "Pashin," and the salvage tug "Nikolai Chiker."
At that time, the island’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement noting that the visit was in line with the "historic relations of friendship between Cuba and the Russian Federation" and that it "strictly adheres to international regulations to which Cuba is a signatory." Throughout the visit, the U.S. government was kept informed about the vessels, which generated significant interest among Cubans and foreign tourists, who had the opportunity to tour the modern frigate Admiral "Gorshkov."
Details on the Arrival of Russian Baltic Fleet Ships in Havana
To provide a clearer understanding of the recent developments regarding the arrival of Russian Baltic Fleet ships in Havana, here are some frequently asked questions and their answers:
When will the Russian Baltic Fleet ships arrive in Havana?
The ships are expected to arrive at Havana Bay on July 27.
Which vessels from the Russian Baltic Fleet will be arriving?
The arriving vessels include the training ship "Smolny," the patrol ship "Neustrashimy," and the high-sea tanker "Yelnya."
Can the public visit any of the ships?
Yes, the public can visit the training ship "Smolny" on Sunday, July 28, from 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm, and on Monday, July 29, between 12:00 pm and 6:00 pm.
Why are these visits important?
These visits are part of a historical practice by the Revolutionary Government of Cuba to maintain and strengthen relations of friendship and cooperation with other nations.