Russian Warships in Cuba: Symbol of Power Amid Tensions

Russian Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova commented on the presence of Russian warships in Cuba, noting the West's ignorance of diplomatic signals until military action occurs. A Russian navy frigate and nuclear submarine recently entered Havana harbour, an action not seen as a threat but viewed as a show of force amid Ukraine tensions.

When asked about Russian warships in Cuba, Russian Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said on Thursday that the West appeared deaf to diplomatic signals from Moscow and only took notice when the army or the navy took action. A Russian navy frigate and a nuclear-powered submarine churned into Havana harbour on Wednesday, a stopover the U.S. and Cuba said posed no threat but which was widely seen as a Russian show of force as tensions rise over the Ukraine war.

The Kremlin said on Thursday there was no reason for any country, including the United States, to be worried about the presence of Russian warships in Cuba on an exercise. "As soon as it comes to exercises or sea voyages, we immediately hear questions and a desire to know what these messages are about," Zakharova said.

"Why does the West remain completely deaf, and then comes up with the most powerful campaigns to prevent Russian signals from entering its information realm?"