Ukrainian lawmakers have criticized President Vladimir Putin’s recent naval visit to Cuba as “cheap blackmail” aimed at flexing Russian power, though it actually reveals Moscow’s limitations.
Four Russian vessels, including the Admiral Gorshkov frigate and Kazan nuclear-powered submarine, docking in Havana is seen as a response to NATO’s increased involvement in Ukraine.
The U.S. government downplays any security threat from the visit, even though American military assets monitored the vessels along the Atlantic coast en route to the Caribbean.
It is speculated that Russia aimed to evoke memories of the Cuban Missile Crisis by deploying its ships, a pivotal moment during the Cold War. However, it’s emphasized that Russia in 2022 cannot be equated to the USSR in 1962.
Putin warned NATO countries about consequences if Ukraine uses Western weapons within Russian borders, stating that Russia will upgrade air defense systems to counter missile threats.
Putin’s argument is based on the principle of providing defensive weapons to regions facing attacks on critical infrastructure. This is part of a larger naval exercise planned for the autumn, with combat ships set to visit Cuba and Venezuela.
Despite concerns raised, these naval movements are considered routine international activities.