Russian Warships Set Sail for Havana: A Show of Force or Friendly Visit?

Russian Warships Set Sail for Havana: A Show of Force or Friendly Visit?
Cuban officials announced that four Russian warships, including a nuclear-powered submarine, are set to dock in Havana next week. The arrival is attributed to the longstanding friendly relations between the two countries. The Cuban foreign ministry emphasized that these vessels will not be equipped with nuclear weapons and assured that their presence does not pose a threat to the region. The move comes amidst escalating tensions over Western military support for Ukraine in its conflict with Russia. The upcoming military exercise involving Russian warships and aircraft in the Caribbean is seen as part of a broader response to U.S. backing for Ukraine. This exercise may involve Russian long-range bombers flying along the U.S. East Coast, a configuration that has not occurred simultaneously in five years.