In a sign of growing ties between Russia and Cuba, three Russian warships have arrived in Cuban waters on Saturday, marking Moscow's second maritime voyage to the island in as many months. The naval group, comprising of a training ship, patrol frigate, and refueling tanker, is set to remain docked in Cuba's port of Havana until August 30.

This recent arrival comes just weeks after another squadron of Russian warships, including a formidable nuclear-powered submarine, visited Havana as part of planned military exercises in June. At that time, American officials closely monitored the exercises, deeming the four-vessel group as posing no real threat. Experts characterized this Caribbean tour as a symbolic display of strength by Russia in response to ongoing U.S. and Western support for Ukraine.

Cuban defense officials announced the latest port call earlier this week, referring to it as a "historical practice" and a demonstration of "friendship and collaboration" between the two nations. However, neither government has provided further details about the purpose of this deployment.

The docking of the Russian flotilla has generated a wave of excitement among the general public, with curious Cubans flocking to the port avenue to catch a glimpse of the imposing warships. Authorities have stated that interested visitors will be allowed on board the Russian training ship named Smolny, providing an opportunity for closer inspection on Sunday and Monday.

Russia has long been an ally of both Venezuela and Cuba, and its warships and aircraft have periodically ventured into the Caribbean, often making stops in Havana. While Cuba may not be a key player in Russian foreign policy, experts suggest that Russia views the island strategically due to its influence among developing nations.

Notably, both Cuba and Russia are subject to severe U.S. sanctions, leading to strengthened political and economic ties between the two countries in recent years. Moscow aims to garner diplomatic support for its conflict in Ukraine, while Havana seeks any economic assistance it can obtain. Cuba has consistently abstained from voting on U.N. resolutions regarding the invasion of Ukraine and refrained from criticizing Russia's actions. Additionally, Russia has supplied significant amounts of oil to Cuba, which has struggled under the weight of the U.S. economic embargo.

The arrival of these Russian warships marks another chapter in the evolving relationship between Russia and Cuba. As the vessels remain docked in Havana, the visit serves as yet another reminder of the ongoing geopolitical dynamics in the region.

[Photo: A ship from Russia's Baltic Fleet enters Havana's bay, in Havana, Cuba, July 27, 2024. Photo by Stringer/Reuters]