Russia is spearheading an ambitious plan to bolster its presence in Latin America, with Mexico taking center stage. The proposed creation of a logistical and commercial corridor connecting Yucatán, Cuba, and Moscow is a linchpin in a diplomatic and economic strategy that is already underway. This Russian initiative envisions a direct air route, energy cooperation—including nuclear—cultural exchanges, expanding investments, and business forums as a consolidation platform.
Cuba's role is pivotal, serving as a strategic hinge and operational base in this triangular network that Russia aims to establish in the region. In a discussion with the Mexican outlet Proceso, Aleksey Valkov, director of the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, outlined the core elements of this new roadmap designed to solidify a long-term regional architecture.
Cuba: Russia's Long-standing Ally in the Americas
Within this tripartite equation, Cuba is far more than a mere technical stopover; it is a central geopolitical player. Under Miguel Díaz-Canel's leadership, Havana has sustained a close and stable alliance with Moscow since the Cold War, now renewed through evolving forms of energy, technological, and military cooperation. The Cuban stop on the Moscow-Mexico air route is envisioned as a logistical, diplomatic, and cultural hub. Its geographic location—in the heart of the Caribbean and near the Yucatán Peninsula—provides a platform for regional trade, investment, and Russian presence.
A Strategic Triangle: Yucatán-Cuba-Moscow
"The first step involves a logistical and commercial component: establishing a direct air route between Moscow and Mexico, with a stop in Havana," Valkov explains. The concept is to build "an aerial highway for business," rather than a tourist connection. The proposal was presented to members of President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo's administration and formalized in April 2025, when a delegation of 300 Russian business leaders and officials participated in a bilateral forum in Mexico. According to Valkov, this event was "a very good step toward strengthening bilateral dialogue," with continuation slated for the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum.
In this logistical design, Cuba facilitates the technical and symbolic articulation of the corridor, representing the most stable and proven link between Latin America and Russia. From there, customs operations, cargo flights, technological platforms, and even educational and medical cooperation initiatives could be centralized, as noted by the cited outlet.
Energy and Technology: The Underlying Strategy
A crucial pillar of this Russian offensive is the energy sector. Russia has expressed a keen interest in collaborating with Mexico on gas, oil, renewable energies, and nuclear power. Among the proposals is a potential agreement to supply uranium to the Laguna Verde nuclear plant and the integration of small modular reactor technology to electrify remote areas.
"Russia celebrates 80 years of its nuclear industry. It can offer Mexico significant technological energy potential, including the small modular reactor sector to provide economic and energy stability to remote areas," Valkov stated. The Russian Embassy in Mexico announced on June 21 its readiness to supply liquefied natural gas (LNG) and share exploration and refining technologies. Although the announcement was made from Mexico, Cuba might play an intermediary storage or logistical redistribution role in that energy supply.
Cuba and Russian Military Maneuvers
Cuba's geostrategic significance was also highlighted in June 2024, when the Russian nuclear submarine Kazan and a fleet of warships conducted precision exercises in the Atlantic, departing from Havana's port. These maneuvers included long-range missile launch simulations and anti-aircraft fire, less than 600 kilometers from the Yucatán Peninsula. While Moscow framed the operations as routine drills, selecting Cuba as a base was an implicit declaration of its role in the Kremlin's defensive and strategic architecture in the Americas.
Cultural Diplomacy and 135 Years of Ties
In 2025, Mexico and Russia will mark 135 years of diplomatic relations. However, the cultural axis also includes Cuba, with which Russia has maintained sustained exchanges in education, medicine, and sciences for decades. "There is indeed great interest in Mexico and its rich culture... Many people in Russia visit exhibitions and are well acquainted with Frida Kahlo's paintings," Valkov commented, although the cultural exchange's scope is much broader. In Cuba's case, it is a consolidated legacy, with thousands of students and technicians trained in the former USSR and a deep symbolic connection to the Russian socialist project.
Mexico and the Indian Model: Expanding Investments
During Andrés Manuel López Obrador's administration, Russian investment in Mexico increased from $2.8 million (2022) to $86.4 million (2024), according to official figures. Russia seeks to replicate the model it has already deployed in India: starting with a key sector (such as pharmaceuticals or energy) and advancing toward technological transfer and industrial consolidation. The Yucatán-Cuba-Russia route is part of this strategy, where each point fulfills a defined role: Mexico as an investment recipient, Cuba as a logistical and diplomatic hub, and Moscow as a technological and financial driver.
While Trump Builds Walls...
As Russia strengthens its presence in Latin America with this tripartite architecture, Donald Trump, during his second term, has intensified the militarization of the Mexican border, reignited a tariff war, and retracted his foreign policy towards the Middle East. In contrast, Moscow is patiently constructing its sphere of influence in the Western Hemisphere.
Key Aspects of Russia's Latin American Strategy
What is the main goal of Russia's proposed corridor?
The main goal is to establish a logistical and commercial corridor linking Yucatán, Cuba, and Moscow to enhance diplomatic and economic ties, focusing on business rather than tourism.
Why is Cuba considered a pivotal part of this strategy?
Cuba serves as a strategic base in the corridor due to its geographic location and longstanding alliance with Russia, making it a central player in regional trade, investments, and cultural exchanges.
How does Russia plan to collaborate with Mexico in the energy sector?
Russia plans to collaborate with Mexico by supplying uranium for nuclear power, offering LNG, and sharing technology for oil and gas exploration and refining.
What role does cultural diplomacy play in Russia's strategy?
Cultural diplomacy is key in strengthening ties through educational and scientific exchanges, with a focus on shared history and cultural interests, particularly with Cuba.