Russian Warships Leave Havana's Port After 5-Day Visit to Cuba

Two Russian warships, the Admiral Gorshkov frigate and the destroyer Severomorsk, left Havana's port on Tuesday after a five-day visit to Cuba. The ships arrived in Cuba on February 17, marking the first visit by Russian warships to the island nation since 2019. Their departure comes amidst heightened tensions between the United States and Russia over the war in Ukraine. The United States has been critical of Russia's military presence in Cuba, viewing it as a challenge to U.S. interests in the region. The visit was seen by some as a sign of growing cooperation between Russia and Cuba, both of which have been subjected to U.S. sanctions in recent years. However, the Cuban government has stated that the visit was purely for a friendly exchange and did not involve any military exercises. During their stay, the Russian sailors participated in cultural events and meetings with Cuban officials. The departure of the warships marks the end of a brief but symbolic visit that has underscored the deepening relationship between Russia and Cuba.

Summary

"The departure of the Russian warships from Havana's port after a five-day visit signifies the end of a symbolic event that highlighted the strengthening relationship between Russia and Cuba. The visit, however, has generated concerns in the United States, as it comes amidst escalating tensions between the two superpowers over the conflict in Ukraine. The visit was characterized by cultural exchanges and meetings with Cuban officials, emphasizing the friendly nature of the interaction."