Russian Spy Ship Docks in Old Havana

Russian Spy Ship Docks in Old Havana

Maybe it’s just irony, but it sure seems a little fishy that the Viktor Leonov CCB-175, a Russian spy ship decked out with high-tech software, radar, 30-mm cannons and anti-aircraft guns, moored at a pier in Old Havana, especially when U.S.-Cuba talks, aimed to normalize diplomatic relations, are underway.

The Viktor is typically seen traveling up and down the American Eastern Seaboard, in international waters, with its radars pointed toward the United States. The Pentagon actively tracks the Viktor and they indicated that there is nothing to worry about as the Cubans have normal relations with Russia.

The ship was said to have about 200 sailors on board and was later opened to children of Russian diplomats.

“One day, when we have normal relations with U.S., we could have an American ship visiting,” said Raphael Hernandez.

Should the U.S. see this ship as a threat or do you believe it’s just coincidence that it is docked during the U.S.-Cuba talks? I also see the irony of having children aboard a ship laden with such technology of destruction, but maybe that's just me tapping into my literature background.

(Photo by volcano3 of shipspotting.com)

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Ginger Hill is Group Social Media Manager.

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