This past Friday, Havana's Fifth Avenue became the backdrop for the "Immortal Regiment" march, an event organized by the Russian Embassy in Cuba to mark the 81st anniversary of the Victory in the Great Patriotic War.
The marchers, including Russian citizens residing on the island, diplomats, and their families, paraded through one of the capital's main streets. They carried portraits of relatives who fought against Nazi Germany and sang wartime songs.
Leading the procession was Russian Ambassador Viktor Koronelli, accompanied by members of the diplomatic mission. "Together with my fellow citizens and our mission's staff, we march today through Havana with portraits of our grandparents and great-grandparents to honor the achievements of our ancestors who defeated Nazi Germany. Long live Victory!" Koronelli expressed on his social media accounts.
During the march, the ambassador gave interviews to local journalists and Russian media representatives accredited in Cuba. The lead banner of the parade bore the words in Russian "Immortal Regiment • Cuba."
Symbolic Significance and Diplomatic Ties
This event held dual symbolic importance: May 8 also marks the 66th anniversary of the reestablishment of diplomatic relations between Cuba and the former Soviet Union, which occurred on May 8, 1960. The embassy emphasized this milestone in its communications, stating, "We will continue working together for the good of our peoples. We are confident: new victories await us!"
The "Immortal Regiment" is an annual tradition that began in 2012 in Tomsk, Russia, celebrated every May 9—Victory Day—and has since spread to numerous countries. In Havana, it has been commemorated since 2015, when Russians and Cubans walked along the Malecón with portraits of Soviet soldiers. In the 2024 edition, about 500 participants marched along the same Fifth Avenue.
Political Contrasts and Strategic Alliances
The event highlights a notable political contrast: while the Cuban regime consistently prohibits public marches and demonstrations for its own citizens, it permits and even facilitates this annual parade organized by the Russian embassy, ensuring state security guarantees.
The ties between Havana and Moscow have strengthened in recent years. Cuban leader Díaz-Canel visited Moscow for Victory Day in 2024, where he met with Putin and delivered a personal letter from Raúl Castro. In 2025, he repeated the visit, demonstrating Havana's support for Moscow amid the ongoing war in Ukraine.
In February 2026, Ambassador Koronelli summarized the relationship's status: "Cuba was, is, and remains our most significant partner in Latin America," asserting that bilateral ties are "at the height of strategic cooperation."
The Great Patriotic War claimed approximately 27 million Soviet lives, both military and civilian, and its remembrance holds a central place in the identity and propaganda narrative of Putin's Russia, particularly since the onset of the Ukraine conflict.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Immortal Regiment March in Havana
What is the Immortal Regiment?
The Immortal Regiment is an annual event originating in Russia, where participants march with portraits of relatives who fought in World War II, specifically against Nazi Germany. It's a tribute to the sacrifices made during the Great Patriotic War.
Why is the march significant in Cuba?
The march in Cuba is significant due to its symbolic celebration of historical ties between Cuba and Russia, dating back to the Soviet Union era. It also highlights the ongoing diplomatic relationship and strategic partnership between the two nations.
How does the Cuban government respond to this event?
The Cuban government allows and supports the Immortal Regiment march, providing security and facilitating the event, despite its usual restrictions on public demonstrations for Cuban citizens.