Moscow, Russia. Russia said on Tuesday it had unwavering solidarity with Cuba, after U.S. President Donald Trump said he expected to have the honour of “taking Cuba” and that “I can do anything I want” with the Communist-run island republic.
Russian foreign ministry statement
Without mentioning Trump by name, Russia’s foreign ministry expressed serious concern about the escalation of tension around what it described as the “Island of Liberty.”
“Russia reaffirms its unwavering solidarity with the government and fraternal people of Cuba,” the ministry said.
“We strongly condemn attempts of gross interference in the internal affairs of a sovereign state, intimidation and the use of illegal unilateral restrictive measures.”
U.S. pressure and reported objective
Trump has stepped up economic pressure on Cuba, imposing an oil blockade that has crippled its already obsolete power generation system.
The New York Times reported that removing Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel from office was a key U.S. objective. Citing four people familiar with the talks, the Times said the Americans have signalled to Cuban negotiators that Diaz-Canel must go but are leaving the next steps up to the Cubans.
Kremlin contact and support pledge
The Kremlin said it was in contact with Cuban leadership and that Moscow was ready to provide all possible assistance.
“Today, Liberty Island is facing unprecedented challenges, which have become a direct result of the long-term trade, economic, financial, and more recently, the U.S. energy embargo against Cuba,” Russia’s foreign ministry said.
Russia said it provided and would continue “to provide Cuba with the necessary support, including financial support”.
Regional context
Russia was deprived of an ally when the United States toppled Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro, though Russia has benefited from the high oil prices triggered by the U.S. and Israeli attack on Iran, a strategic partner of Moscow.
How do you think Russia’s pledged support could affect Cuba’s response to increased U.S. pressure?
