Miguel Díaz-Canel engaged in a meeting of "significant importance" with Russia's Interior Minister, Vladimir Kolokoltsev, this Tuesday at the Palace of the Revolution.
Amid escalating tensions between Havana and Washington, the Cuban leader has once again turned to his longstanding Russian ally. He described the visit by the Russian general as evidence of Moscow's "sensitivity" and "understanding" regarding Cuba's current situation, which is mired in a severe economic, political, and social crisis.
The meeting also saw participation from Cuba's Interior Minister, Lázaro Alberto Álvarez Casas, alongside other senior officials from both nations.
The official visit to Cuba aims to enhance bilateral cooperation and coordination in combating crime, against a backdrop of vigorous diplomatic activity between the two countries.
However, this gathering takes place three weeks after the U.S. military operation in Venezuela, which resulted in the capture of Nicolás Maduro and his wife, who are charged with narco-terrorism by the U.S. justice system.
This development has shifted the regional political landscape, leaving the Cuban regime more isolated than ever, with its key South American ally out of power.
Díaz-Canel and Kolokoltsev discussed security cooperation and exchanged views on the "complex global situation."
This meeting bolsters the perception that Havana is seeking military and police support from Moscow amid growing internal discontent on the island and international pressure, particularly from the United States.
The Russian minister also met with Raúl Castro, where they discussed "the excellent bilateral relations between Russia and Cuba" and their commitment to strengthening these ties. The Army General sent warm regards to President Vladimir Putin.
In recent years, Russia has increased its influence in Cuba through energy, logistics, and defense agreements, while the Cuban government faces protests, power outages, and an unprecedented wave of migration.
The Kremlin's backing has become one of the few external supports for the regime, amid sanctions and a lack of legitimacy.
Neither Díaz-Canel nor Kolokoltsev provided public statements about the specifics of the meeting, which, according to official media, was "fraternal" and "productive."
International observers see the visit as a sign of strategic alignment between Havana and Moscow in response to the new diplomatic and economic offensive by Washington in Latin America.
Understanding the Cuba-Russia Alliance in the Current Global Context
Why is Cuba seeking closer ties with Russia?
Cuba is strengthening its relationship with Russia to gain support amid internal discontent and international pressure, particularly from the United States.
How has the arrest of Nicolás Maduro affected Cuba?
The arrest of Nicolás Maduro has left the Cuban regime more isolated, as their principal South American ally is no longer in power.
What role does Russia play in Cuba's current strategy?
Russia plays a crucial role in providing military, logistical, and energy support to Cuba, which is facing significant internal challenges and external sanctions.