Moscow, February 2026 — In a high-profile show of geopolitical solidarity, Russian President Vladimir Putin met with Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez in Moscow this week, reaffirming a “special relationship” and slamming the ongoing economic pressures placed on the island nation by the United States.
The meeting comes at a critical juncture for both nations as they navigate tightening international sanctions and shifting global alliances.
A Rejection of “Sanction Diplomacy”
President Putin opened the dialogue by explicitly condemning the external economic pressures faced by Havana. Referring to the decades-long U.S. embargo, Putin stated that Russia “does not accept anything of the sort,” describing the Kremlin’s position against the sanctions as “open, clear, and unequivocal”.
Putin emphasized that Russia has historically stood by Cuba in its struggle for independence and its right to develop along its own path. He acknowledged the “special period” Cuba is currently facing due to new rounds of sanctions, reinforcing Moscow’s commitment to supporting the Cuban people in defending their national interests.
The “Energy Siege” and Mutual Support
Foreign Minister Rodríguez, acting as a special envoy for President Miguel Díaz-Canel, expressed deep gratitude for Russia’s “unwavering solidarity”. He drew specific attention to a “recent energy siege” that has caused significant suffering among the Cuban population and created “very difficult conditions” for the domestic economy.
The Minister noted that despite the literal cold of the Moscow winter, the warmth of the diplomatic reception was palpable. He highlighted that bilateral relations remain a “huge priority” for Cuba, with several joint projects currently underway aimed at mutual benefit.
Honoring the Past, Planning the Future
The meeting also served as a bridge to historical milestones. President Putin announced that Russia and Cuba would move forward “together” to celebrate the centenary of Fidel Castro later this year.
Beyond the ceremonial, the leaders discussed the positive trajectory of their bilateral relations, with Putin expressing confidence that the talks would allow for a detailed review of ongoing economic and political cooperation.
Bottom Line
The Moscow-Havana axis remains a cornerstone of Russia’s strategy to counter Western influence. By framing the relationship as one forged by “time and mutual support,” both nations are signaling that they intend to bypass traditional Western-led financial and energy systems. For Cuba, Russia remains a vital lifeline against the “blockade,” while for Russia, Cuba serves as a steadfast ideological and strategic ally in the Caribbean.
