The bilateral Russian-Cuban diplomatic relations have a long and glorious history. Since the liberation of the Cuban revolution, the Russian embassy in Cuba has been playing the role of the main conductor of the foreign policy interests of the Russian Federation not only on Liberty Island, but also in the whole region. The embassy building itself, built by the architect Rochegov in a constructivist style, has long been one of the main attractions of the Cuban capital.
How it all began
Despite the fact that a permanent relationship was established between the two countries back in 1902, a diplomatic mission in the capital of the Russian Empire began to work only after eleven years. However, she was not destined to work long, because after the October Revolution, the Cuban government broke off relations with the new government. Relations were restored only in 1942, but already at a fundamentally new, high level.
Throughout the Cold War, Cuba was an unchanging political and military ally of the USSR in the region. Due to its advantageous geographical position, the country has become an excellent springboard for the deployment of intelligence activity against the United States.
Russia's military presence in the region
In addition, the island government volunteered to provide territory for a Soviet military base, which allowed the Soviets to establish themselves in the Caribbean for a long time.
The military presence of Russia in the region ended only in 2003, when the Russian Federation decided to liquidate the radar base in Lourdes. However, the cooperation between the two countries did not stop there. After giving up military ambitions in Latin America, Russia focused on softly promoting its interests and trade and economic diplomacy.
Cultural Exchange and Diplomacy
Not a single diplomatic mission of Russia is left to the mercy of fate of mission employees and their children. In order to ensure access to education, a comprehensive school was created at the Russian Embassy in Cuba, in which children of employees can study both full-time and on a family basis.
The school opened its doors in 1970 and has not stopped working for a single day. Teaching is conducted in accordance with the all-Russian educational program, as well as preparatory courses for preschoolers.