Russia Affirms Ongoing Support for Cuba Amid US Accusations Against Raúl Castro

The Russian government has confirmed its continued communication with Cuba on various matters of mutual interest, following the formal accusations from the United States against former Cuban President Raúl Castro related to the 1996 downing of planes that resulted in the deaths of four individuals. Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson María Zarájova emphasized their solidarity with Cuba, particularly in light of increasing US pressures, including an economic embargo and sanctions. Earlier this year, Russia supplied Cuba with 100,000 tons of oil to alleviate its energy crisis, which has worsened due to the loss of Venezuela as a primary oil supplier. The US Department of Justice has charged Castro with conspiracy to kill US citizens and other serious offenses, which Cuba's leadership has dismissed as politically motivated.

Key Details: • Raúl Castro, now 94, faces serious charges from the US government. • Russia has provided significant oil support to Cuba, including a recent shipment of 100,000 tons. • Cuban officials have publicly rejected US accusations, calling them unfounded and politically motivated.