Russian President Vladimir Putin hosted Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez at the Kremlin today. During the meeting, Putin formally denounced the "unacceptable" trade restrictions and blockades imposed on Cuba by the United States. He reiterated Russia's support for the island nation, particularly as the White House has recently called for "dramatic changes" in the Cuban government.
This meeting occurs against a backdrop of tightening ties between Moscow and Havana. It serves as a direct diplomatic challenge to the U.S. administration, which has maintained a firm stance on Cuba while simultaneously navigating its own new trade pacts in Asia.