Headlines
Russia Says It Supports Cuba After Trump Says He Will 'take' the Communist Republic
Published by Global Banking & Finance Review®
Posted on March 17, 2026
2 min readLast updated: March 17, 2026
Quick Summary
Russia publicly reaffirmed its unwavering solidarity with Cuba, condemning U.S. interference and pledging material and financial support amid a deepening energy crisis spurred by U.S. sanctions and threats from President Trump.
Russia States Unwavering Support for Cuba After Trump Vows to 'Take' Island
Russia's Response to U.S. Pressure on Cuba
Statements from Russian Officials
MOSCOW, March 17 (Reuters) - Russia said it had unwavering solidarity with Cuba on Tuesday, 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.
Without mentioning Trump by name, Russia's foreign ministry expressed serious concern about the escalation of tension around what it cast as the "Island of Liberty".
Solidarity and Condemnation of U.S. Actions
"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. Actions and Their Impact on Cuba
Economic Pressure and Political Objectives
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.
Russia's Continued Support for Cuba
Assistance and Ongoing Cooperation
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.
Financial and Material Support
Russia said it provided and would continue "to provide Cuba with the necessary support, including financial support".
Historical Context of Russia-Cuba Relations
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.
Cuba was a close ally of Moscow for decades after the Communist revolution in 1959 that brought Fidel Castro to power until the collapse of the Soviet Union. More recently, Russia has supported the island with both financing and material goods.
(Reporting by Guy Faulconbridge; Editing by Alex Richardson)
Key Takeaways
- •Russia condemned U.S. attempts to interfere in Cuba’s internal affairs and rejected threats and blackmail as unacceptable, framing its support as defense of sovereignty and international law
- •Russia has already provided—and committed to continuing—financial, material, and humanitarian aid to Cuba to help mitigate an escalating energy and humanitarian crisis
- •Tensions are mounting as Trump threatens tariffs on oil suppliers to Cuba and speaks of a ‘friendly takeover,’ while Cuba faces blackouts and fuel shortages due to the tightening U.S. oil blockade
Frequently Asked Questions about Russia says it supports Cuba after Trump says he will 'take' the Communist republic
1What is Russia's stance on Cuba after Trump's comments?
Russia reaffirmed its unwavering solidarity with Cuba, condemning US interference and vowing continued financial and strategic support.
2What actions has the US taken against Cuba recently?
The US has increased economic pressure, including an oil blockade, intensifying Cuba's challenges and aiming for a leadership change.
3How is Russia supporting Cuba?
Russia is providing financial support and material goods while maintaining close communication with the Cuban leadership.
4What is the significance of Cuba to Russia and the US?
Cuba remains a key strategic partner for Russia and a longstanding point of contention with US foreign policy since the Cold War era.
5What impact do US sanctions have on Cuba?
US sanctions and embargoes have severely impacted Cuba's economy, notably crippling its power generation and creating new economic challenges.
