Russia reaffirms solidarity with Cuba, denounces U.S. 'blackmail and threats'

• Russia publicly backs Cuba against U.S. sanctions, accusing Washington of coercion.
• The statement reinforces Moscow-Havana alignment and could deepen bilateral ties.
• Cuban officials have vowed not to yield to pressure, as both nations call for international support.

Russia’s Foreign Ministry issued a strong statement on Thursday, expressing solidarity with Cuba and condemning what it described as Washington’s “blackmail and threats” against the island nation. The remarks, reported by state media, come amid heightened tensions between the U.S. and Cuba over ongoing sanctions and the U.S. designation of Cuba on its list of state sponsors of terrorism.

“We stand in full solidarity with Cuba and reject any form of pressure, blackmail or threats coming from Washington,” a ministry spokesperson said, according to TASS. The statement follows recent exchanges between Russian and Cuban officials in Havana, where both sides reiterated their commitment to strategic cooperation and opposition to unilateral U.S. measures.

Cuba’s Foreign Minister, in a separate address, characterized U.S. policies as coercive and vowed that Cuba would not bow to external pressure. “We will continue to defend our sovereignty and reject any attempt at interference,” he said, adding that Cuba is seeking support from allies in the international community.

The show of unity is part of a broader pattern of Russia-Cuba alignment against U.S. policies, reviving Cold War-era ties. Moscow has offered energy and material assistance to help Cuba mitigate the impact of the U.S. embargo, which has been tightened in recent years.

Analysts suggest the rhetoric could further strain U.S.-Cuba relations while strengthening Moscow’s influence in the Western Hemisphere. “Russia sees Cuba as a strategic foothold in the Caribbean,” said a Latin America specialist. “By backing Havana publicly, Moscow signals its willingness to challenge U.S. dominance in the region.”

Washington has not yet responded to the latest statements. Attempts to reach the U.S. State Department for comment were unsuccessful.

In related developments, Cuba and Russia have discussed joint energy projects and increased trade, according to officials familiar with the matter. The deepening partnership is likely to be a topic at upcoming international forums.