Russia warns against 'outside interference' after anti-govt. protests in Cuba

Russia has warned against any foreign interference in Cuba following the recent anti-government protests in the Caribbean island country.

Maria Zakharova, Russia’s Foreign Ministry spokeswoman, raised the alarm about “outside interference” in Cuba on Monday after thousands of people took to the streets in several major cities over the weekend to air grievances against President Miguel Diaz-Canel’s government.

“We consider it unacceptable for there to be outside interference in the internal affairs of a sovereign state or any destructive actions that would encourage the destabilization of the situation on the island,” Zakharova said in a statement.

The Russian official did not explain who might be trying to interfere in Cuba’s affairs, but the warning appeared to be directed at the United States as some US officials expressed support for the protests and urged the government in Havana not to target the protesters.

“We are closely following the development of the situation in and around Cuba,” Zakharova said, adding, “We are convinced that Cuban authorities are taking all necessary measures to restore public order in the interests of the country’s citizens and within the framework of the Constitution.”

The anti-government rallies started spontaneously in several cities on Sunday.

Cuba is going through its worst economic crisis in 30 years, with chronic shortages of electricity and food.

Reports said police used tear gas to disperse the crowds, and at least ten people were arrested.

MG