What actions can be expected from the Russian warships and submarines arriving in Cuba?

The arrival of a detachment of the Russian Navy in Havana this Wednesday, including a modern frigate and a nuclear-powered submarine, has generated great excitement both inside and outside the island due to its geopolitical significance. The visit has raised questions about the purpose of the visit and the implications for the region.

The Ministry of the Revolutionary Armed Forces (Minfar) announced the visit of the Kazan nuclear-powered submarine, the frigate Gorshkov, the fleet oil tanker Pashin, and the rescue tug Nikolai Chiker between June 12 and 17 in Havana. The Gorshkov frigate, a recent addition to the Russian fleet, has participated in multinational exercises in recent years, including a drill involving the launch of Tsirkon hypersonic missiles from the sea in 2023.

The Kazan submarine, a modern nuclear-powered vessel capable of firing cruise missiles, came into operation in 2021. The Cuban government framed the visit as a protocol visit, emphasizing the historical friendship and collaboration between the two countries. The US Department of Defense indicated that the flotilla is expected to make stops in ports in Cuba and possibly Venezuela during the summer, as well as conduct air exercises in the Caribbean.

The Russian deployment has been seen as a response to recent developments in Ukraine, where Western countries have been providing weapons to the Ukrainian government. While some experts attribute the visit to international tensions, others see it as a way for Russia to demonstrate strength beyond its usual sphere of influence. The Cuban government may also be seeking Russian support to address internal issues, including economic challenges and discontent among the population.

Relations between Cuba and Russia have strengthened in recent years, with high-level visits and cooperation in various sectors. The economic partnership has seen initiatives ranging from Russian donations to advisory missions on reforms, to lines of credit for Cuba to purchase essential commodities from Russia. The military ties between the two countries have also developed, with frequent visits by senior military officials.