Lavrov expressed gratitude to Cuba for the support of the Russian Federation against the background of external pressure

Russia expresses solidarity and support to Cuba against the background of external pressure on the country, Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said on June 3 in congratulating the 95th birthday of former leader of the republic Raul Castro.

"Against the background of unprecedented external pressure faced by the Cuban people, we once again express our firm solidarity and support. We will continue to work hand in hand to strengthen cooperation both on the bilateral agenda and on international platforms for the sake of forming a just multipolar world order," the message of greetings on the ministry's website reads.

He noted that Moscow highly appreciates Castro's significant personal contribution to strengthening the "multidisciplinary strategic partnership relations" between the two countries, which are based on strong traditions of friendship and mutual respect. Lavrov added that Castro's life has shown an outstanding example of selfless service to the Motherland, his people and the ideals of the Cuban Revolution. The Minister noted that he fondly remembers their joint meetings, as well as confidential and meaningful conversations.

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Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov noted on May 21 that the blockade of Cuba has catastrophic consequences for ordinary people, and further actions by the United States, whose aircraft carrier group has arrived in the Caribbean, could worsen their situation.

On April 15, Lavrov declared his unwillingness to speculate about the consequences of US threats against Cuba. In addition, he announced the full support of Cuba from the Russian Federation and stressed the determination of Cubans to defend their freedom to the end, using all the methods at their disposal.