Russian Navy Continues Global Outreach with Port Visit to Havana, Cuba
ICARO Media Group
In a continuation of its global outreach and military cooperation efforts, the Russian Navy's Baltic Fleet is set to arrive at the port of Havana in Cuba on July 27. This follows a previous visit by the Russian flotilla, which included a nuclear submarine, that gained attention for conducting military drills in the Caribbean.
According to the Cuban Defense Ministry, the Russian vessels, including the training ship "Smolny," the patrol ship "Neustrashimiy," and the oil tanker "Yelnya," will make a working visit to Havana from July 27 to July 30. The ministry emphasized that this visit strengthens ties and ongoing cooperation between the two countries.
During their stay in Havana, the Russian servicemen will meet with Havana Governor Reynaldo Garcia Zapata and Commander-in-Chief of the Cuban Naval Forces Luis Reyes López. They will also have the opportunity to explore the historical and cultural sights of the Cuban capital. Additionally, the Cubans will be permitted to visit the Russian training ship, "Smolny," on July 28 and 29.
The arrival of the Russian ships comes more than a month after the naval strike group of the Northern Fleet, including the nuclear submarine Kazan and the frigate Admiral Gorshkov, docked in Havana. This previous visit garnered significant attention when the Russian nuclear submarine surfaced near the U.S. coastline on its way to Cuba.
The recent series of port visits and military exercises conducted by the Russian Navy reflects their strategy of strengthening military cooperation with friendly nations and allies. This is especially significant as Russia faces international isolation in the aftermath of the Ukraine War.
Moreover, this port visit to Cuba coincides with Russia's Navy Day, which is celebrated on July 28. The Russian Navy has been engaging in various collaborative efforts throughout the month, including maritime security exercises with Iran in the Caspian Sea and joint drills and patrols with China in the South China Sea. Earlier this week, the Northern Fleet flotilla, led by Admiral Gorshkov, entered the Mediterranean Sea, where it will engage in military-diplomatic missions and practice interaction with other Russian ships.
In addition to their global outreach, the Russian Navy will also hold a naval parade in St. Petersburg on Navy Day, showcasing their naval prowess and highlighting their continued presence on the global stage.