Russia has urged the United States to avoid a naval blockade of Cuba, reaffirming support for the island’s sovereignty and regional stability.

Speaking in Moscow, Sergey Lavrov, Russia’s Foreign Minister, called on Washington “to show common sense and take a responsible attitude, refraining from implementing its plans for a naval blockade of the Island of Freedom.”

He added Russia “categorically reject[s] the far-fetched allegations regarding Russia and Cuba, and cooperation between them, which is presumably threatening the interests of the United States or any other countries.”

Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez Parrilla criticised US policy, stating Washington’s actions “pose a threat to the world order” and warning that tightening sanctions are worsening Cuba’s economic hardship. He said Havana would continue defending its sovereignty and seek economic recovery.

Key developments:

• Russia confirmed planned humanitarian oil shipments to Cuba.

• Havana said US fuel embargo measures are intensifying domestic shortages.

• Cuba reaffirmed readiness for “respectful dialogue on equal terms”.

• Regional tensions remain high following US actions involving Nicolás Maduro.

ℹ️ Anadolu Agency

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Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, second left, and Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez, front right, enter a hall during their meeting in Moscow, Russia, Wednesday, Feb. 18, 2026.(Hector Retamal/Pool Photo via AP)
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