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The spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Russia, María Zajárova, expressed Moscow's strong support for the Cuban regime, emphasizing that it has an "impeccable reputation" in international cooperation against terrorism.
During an official statement, Zajárova affirmed that "Cuba has an impeccable and exemplary reputation as an energetic participant in the fight against terrorism," reaffirming Russia's commitment to supporting Havana in the defense of its sovereignty.
These statements arise in a context where the United States has re-added Cuba to the list of state sponsors of terrorism, a decision made during the Trump Administration.
The Russian government believes that this measure is unfounded and driven by political interests. "There is no evidence that Cuba supports international terrorism. This remains an irrefutable fact," asserted Zajárova, noting that the financial and economic restrictions imposed are aimed at destabilizing the Cuban government, directly impacting the quality of life of its population.
Russia also reiterated its opposition to the economic embargo imposed by the United States, calling it "illegal and inhumane."
Zajárova stated that these policies aim to generate social discontent within the island, but they have proven ineffective after more than 60 years of implementation.
Moreover, Moscow questioned the arguments of the U.S. Administration, which justified Cuba's reinstatement on the list as part of an effort to reverse "illegal and radical" practices of the previous administration.
Russia asserted that these actions have no connection to the fight against terrorism and called for the elimination of economic sanctions that affect the Cuban people.
The Russian support underscores Moscow's strategic interest in strengthening its relationship with Havana at a time of global geopolitical tensions, reaffirming its position as a key ally of the Cuban regime.
Cuba and Russia's Support in the Current Context
On January 21, 2025, President Donald Trump revoked his predecessor Joe Biden's decision to remove Cuba from the list of state sponsors of terrorism.
Trump justified this measure as necessary for the interests of his administration and to restore "common sense" in U.S. government policies.
The reintegration of Cuba into this list implies severe economic sanctions and diplomatic restrictions, increasing the pressure on the Cuban regime, which was already facing a serious economic and humanitarian crisis.
The Cuban regime responded the next day with a defiant speech, accusing the United States of "imperialist aggression."
Cuban authorities, in an official statement filled with propaganda, ignored the accusations regarding their support for extremist governments and organizations, such as Russia, Iran, and Venezuela, and attributed Trump's decision to a harassment campaign.
Meanwhile, Chancellor Bruno Rodríguez and President Miguel Díaz-Canel focused their narrative on blaming Washington for Cuba's internal problems, overlooking the impact of their own repressive and economic policies.
Cuba has halted the release of political prisoners agreed upon with the Vatican. Although it was initially agreed to release 553 prisoners as part of a humanitarian gesture, so far only a quarter have been released.
Human rights groups noted that this interruption coincided with Cuba's re-inclusion on the list of state sponsors of terrorism, raising concerns about compliance with the agreement.
This Thursday, Trump issued a warning to Vladimir Putin, urging him to halt the war in Ukraine, as he believes it will only worsen, and threatened to impose more severe economic sanctions against Russia if an agreement is not reached.
This stance reinforces Trump's hardline approach towards authoritarian regimes, such as Cuba and Russia, highlighting a contrast with the more conciliatory policies of the Biden administration.
Frequently asked questions about Russia's support for the Cuban regime and its inclusion on the list of state sponsors of terrorism
What is Russia's stance on Cuba's inclusion in the list of countries sponsoring terrorism?
Russia rejects the inclusion of Cuba on the list of state sponsors of terrorism and considers this measure to be unfounded, attributing it to political interests of the United States. According to the spokesperson for the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, María Zajárova, there is no evidence that Cuba supports international terrorism.
What are the consequences for Cuba of being on the United States' list of state sponsors of terrorism?
The inclusion of Cuba on the list of state sponsors of terrorism implies severe economic sanctions and diplomatic restrictions, which increases pressure on the Cuban regime and affects the quality of life of its population. These sanctions limit access to trade and international aid.
How has the Cuban regime responded to its reinstatement on the terrorism list?
The Cuban regime has labeled the reintegration as an "imperialist onslaught" and accuses the United States of "aggression." Cuban authorities argue that this measure is unjustified and is part of a harassment campaign, blaming the U.S. for their internal problems.
What role does Russia play in cooperation with Cuba today?
Russia has strengthened its alliance with Cuba, providing support in sectors such as energy, culture, and education. Russia has committed to assist Cuba in its energy crisis through modernization projects and technical assistance, as well as collaborating in the educational and cultural fields.
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