Cuba Backs Citizens Joining Russian Troops in Ukraine

Cuba backs citizens joining Russian troops in Ukraine. Ambassador Julio Antonio Garmendía Peña says they permit citizens to join Russia’s operations in Ukraine.

But they condemn illegal actions. Recently, authorities detained 17 Cubans over recruitment suspicions.

Peña clarified, “Cubans can join Russia’s military legally, but we won’t accept wrongdoing.”

He warned that some might misuse this for personal benefits.

On September 4th, Cuba’s Foreign Ministry began investigating a trafficking network related to Ukraine.

NGO Insights

The “Prisoners Defenders” NGO claims Cuba sent troops to support Russia in Ukraine and mentions 1,045 political prisoners in Cuba.

They believe Cuban media supports Russia’s narrative, affecting Latin America’s view.

In 2022, Cuba’s leader, Miguel Diaz-Canel, visited Russia and encouraged youth participation in the conflict.

Ukrainian officials found 199 Cuban passports, indicating involvement.

Background

Since July, Aeroflot has transported many recruits from Cuba to Russia. The NGO suggests these recruits might be due to a Russian trafficking network.

They also believe Cuba’s military training comes without Belarus’s help, indicating their proficiency.

The NGO speculates Cuba might provide trained personnel to Russia, comparing it to their medical staff leasing system.