The USS Helena, a nuclear-powered fast-attack submarine, arrived in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, on Thursday, closely following the arrival of Russian naval forces in Havana for joint drills with Cuba. This convergence of U.S., Russian, and Canadian naval vessels on the island has revived concerns reminiscent of Cold War-era tensions.

The USS Helena, a Los Angeles-class submarine, is equipped for global maritime security and defense missions, boasting advanced torpedoes and missiles. Commissioned in the 1980s, these submarines are renowned for their endurance and extensive operational capabilities.

STATEMENT: The fast-attack submarine USS Helena is in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba as part of a routine port visit as it transits the U.S. Southern Command geographic area of responsibility while conducting its global maritime security and national defense mission. The vessel’s location… pic.twitter.com/icbeuonjgp

— U.S. Southern Command (@Southcom) June 13, 2024

The Russian naval contingent, which includes the Admiral Gorshkov frigate and the Yasen-M-class nuclear-powered submarine Kazan, docked in Havana after completing missile training exercises in the Atlantic Ocean. The Cuban armed forces welcomed the fleet with a 21-cannon salute, marking the ceremonial significance of their visit.

Simultaneously, the Canadian patrol vessel Margaret Brooke entered Havana on Friday. Canadian officials characterized this visit as routine, highlighting the long-standing bilateral relationship between Canada and Cuba. They clarified that the timing of the visit was coincidental and not related to the Russian ships’ presence.

Despite the simultaneous naval activities, both U.S. and Cuban officials have downplayed any perceived threats. The Cuban Foreign Ministry assured that none of the visiting ships carry nuclear weapons and stressed that their presence does not threaten the region.

This visit by the USS Helena follows a similar port call by another Los Angeles-class submarine, the USS Pasadena, in Guantanamo Bay last year, which had prompted a strong reaction from the Cuban government. 

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