Russian warships conducted drills in the Atlantic as they headed to visit Cuba, in an effort to project power amid tensions with the West over Ukraine. The Admiral Gorshkov frigate and Kazan nuclear-powered submarine simulated a missile strike on enemy ships, using new Zircon hypersonic missiles. Russian President Vladimir Putin has praised the Zircon missile for its capabilities. The Russian warships are supported by two vessels on their visit to Havana, reflecting the historically friendly relations between Russia and Cuba.
The Cuban Foreign Ministry stated that the Russian warships will be in Havana from Wednesday to June 17, assuring that none of them carry nuclear weapons and do not pose a threat to the region. This visit comes after the U.S. announced tracking Russian warships and aircraft expected to arrive in the Caribbean for a military exercise. Putin’s warning about potential responses to Ukraine’s Western allies providing weapons has heightened tensions.
While Russia has sent warships to the Caribbean before, this visit is significant following recent geopolitical developments. The presence of Russian warships in Cuba highlights the ongoing power struggles between major world powers. The maneuvers and drills conducted by the Russian navy demonstrate their readiness and capabilities to respond to potential threats. The visit of the Russian warships to Havana is a clear display of Moscow’s influence in the region.
Source
Photo credit apnews.com