Amidst escalating global tensions and mounting uncertainty for Cuba, Russian President Vladimir Putin has once again aligned firmly with the Cuban government.
Speaking from the Kremlin, Putin expressed Moscow's solidarity with Cuba in its quest to safeguard its sovereignty and independence. This message comes at a time when official rhetoric from both Havana and Washington has reached a heightened level of confrontation.
During a ceremony where new ambassadors presented their credentials, Putin emphasized that Russia has provided and will continue to provide assistance to its "Cuban friends," highlighting that the relationship between the two nations is "truly solid and friendly," according to the EFE news agency.
Addressing Cuba's new ambassador to Moscow, Enrique Orta González, the Russian leader noted that the Russo-Cuban alliance has proven its worth over time and is based on the "genuine mutual sympathy" shared by both peoples.
The support extends beyond politics. Putin pointed out that both governments are carrying out joint projects in critical sectors such as energy, metallurgy, transportation infrastructure, and medicine, while also expanding cultural and humanitarian exchanges. This narrative is often portrayed by the Cuban regime as a lifeline during the severe economic crisis affecting its population.
In the same vein, Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova expressed Moscow's "concern" over increasing tensions and hostile rhetoric directed at Cuba. She condemned what she termed as coercive language and threats against the island, labeling them unacceptable, as reported by EFE.
This message was reinforced by the Russia Today (RT) channel, which also quoted Putin emphasizing that Russia "has always provided and continues to provide assistance" to Cuba, recalling the long history of cooperation between Moscow and Havana.
According to this source, the Russian president once again highlighted economic cooperation and projects deemed vital for Cuba's economy.
These statements arise in the context of the Trump administration's hardened stance towards Cuba, following the operation in Venezuela that resulted in the capture of Nicolás Maduro.
In light of this situation, Cuban leader Miguel Díaz-Canel has reiterated that no political talks are taking place with Washington and has responded to threats by assuring that Cuba is ready to defend itself "to the last drop of blood."
Understanding Russia-Cuba Relations Amid Global Tensions
What sectors are Russia and Cuba collaborating on?
Russia and Cuba are collaborating in key sectors such as energy, metallurgy, transportation infrastructure, and medicine, in addition to expanding cultural and humanitarian exchanges.
How has Russia expressed its support for Cuba?
Russia has expressed its support for Cuba through political solidarity, economic cooperation, and joint projects in vital sectors, reaffirming its commitment to assist Cuba amidst global tensions.
What has been Cuba's response to the heightened tensions with the U.S.?
Cuban leader Miguel Díaz-Canel has stated that there are no political talks with the U.S. and has asserted that Cuba is prepared to defend itself against any threats.