A U.S. Navy submarine has arrived in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, shortly after a Russian flotilla arrived in Havana. The USS Helena, a Los Angeles-class nuclear-powered submarine, is making a routine port visit as part of its global maritime security mission, according to the U.S. Southern Command. The Russian fleet, which includes the missile frigate Admiral Gorshkov and the cruise missile submarine Kazan, received a warm welcome from Cuban armed forces. Both countries have stated that none of the vessels carry nuclear weapons, and the Cuban government assures that the visit poses no threat to the region.
The Los Angeles-class submarines of the U.S. Navy were constructed during the Cold War and are equipped with torpedoes, Tomahawk and Harpoon missiles to target both land and sea.
Powered by nuclear propulsion, the Helena has an unlimited operational range, and is stocked with enough food and supplies to stay on station for approximately three months, known as its “endurance.”
Recently, the Helena was docked at Virginia’s Naval Station Norfolk, less than three weeks ago.
It is not common for the United States and other countries to reveal the precise whereabouts of their submarines, but surfacing a stealth vessel sends a clear military message to potential adversaries.
Considering the timing of the sub’s arrival, it is possible that it traveled through the same waters used by Russian Northern Fleet ships.
“The vessel’s location and transit were planned in advance,” stated SOUTHCOM.
According to a U.S. defense official, American and Canadian naval and air forces have been actively monitoring Russian ships as they crossed the Atlantic Ocean. The Pentagon had prior knowledge of the Russian port call in Cuba and stated that they constantly monitor foreign vessels near U.S. territorial waters. They assured that these exercises do not pose a threat to the United States. As of now, SOUTHCOM has not responded to a request for comment. Russian ships have been visiting Cuba annually since 2013, and this visit follows President Putin’s announcement of “asymmetrical steps” in response to President Biden’s decision regarding Ukraine.
During the G7 summit in Italy on June 13, President Biden and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met and officially signed a significant 10-year bilateral security agreement. This agreement marks a milestone moment in the partnership between the United States and Ukraine, demonstrating a long-term commitment to each other. U.S. national security adviser Jake Sullivan emphasized the importance of this agreement, stating that it not only solidifies the partnership for the present, but also for the years to come. Sullivan further highlighted that the signing of this agreement sends a strong message to Russia, emphasizing the resolve of the coalition supporting Ukraine. He emphasized that Vladimir Putin’s belief that he can outlast the international support for Ukraine is incorrect, as the coalition will not back down and will remain steadfast in their support.