Cubans Continue to Join Russia’s Efforts in Ukraine Despite Havana’s Measures

Reports indicate that Cubans are still traveling to Russia to participate in the ongoing war in Ukraine on the Russian side, despite efforts by the Cuban government to prevent such recruitment, Bloomberg has reported. Sources familiar with the situation reveal that volunteers are enlisting through unofficial channels, with estimates suggesting the number involved is likely in the low hundreds, although exact figures are difficult to ascertain due to the sensitivity of the issue.

The appeal of substantial payments offered by the Russian military is attracting impoverished Cubans, amidst severe economic challenges in their homeland, including energy shortages and food scarcity. Some are also enticed by the opportunity to obtain Russian citizenship, following a decree by President Vladimir Putin earlier this year allowing foreigners to acquire citizenship in exchange for military service in Ukraine.

The Russian Defense Ministry did not respond to requests for comment, and inquiries made to the Cuban embassy in Washington and the Foreign Ministry in Havana went unanswered.

Russia, facing significant military losses since the invasion began in February 2022, has reportedly intensified efforts to recruit troops both domestically and internationally. Western estimates suggest Russian casualties could be as high as 500,000, with recent reports from the UK Ministry of Defence indicating 70,000 deaths or injuries in the past two months alone.

European assessments have also highlighted Kremlin efforts to compel thousands of migrants, foreign students, and workers to join Russian troops in Ukraine. India, for example, raised concerns about its citizens being misled into military service during recent discussions between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Putin in Moscow. Nepal has also acknowledged awareness of hundreds of Nepali men recruited for the war.

Cuba and Russia, longstanding allies since the Cold War era, maintain close political ties, with recent Russian support including oil shipments and naval visits to Cuba.

Despite conflicting statements from Cuban officials regarding involvement in the war, including arrests related to alleged recruitment efforts, the Cuban government has declared its opposition to citizens participating in foreign wars. Nonetheless, reports indicate ongoing challenges in enforcing these measures.

The number of Cubans traveling to Russia has seen fluctuations in recent years, with a noticeable decline in tourist visits but an increase in business-related travel, according to border data from Russia’s security service.