Early Wednesday morning, the Russian vessels entered Havana Bay, greeted by a ceremonial 21-gun salute
The fleet includes the Admiral Gorshkov frigate and the Kazan submarine, both armed with advanced hypersonic Zircon missiles.
According to Russia’s defence minister, the visit is unofficial, intended for the crews to rest and explore local attractions.
US officials are closely monitoring the situation. The Pentagon has downplayed the visit, noting it does not pose a direct threat to the United States.
Pentagon Press Secretary Sabrina Singh remarked that such naval visits are consistent with past events under different administrations.
Cuba’s foreign ministry confirmed that no nuclear arms are aboard the vessels and that their presence does not threaten regional stability.
The timing of this visit highlights Russia’s support for its long-time ally, Cuba, and potentially signals a strategic stance against perceived US meddling in the region.
There is speculation that the warships may next visit Venezuela, another socialist ally of Moscow.