Russia has been increasingly utilizing Cuban mercenaries in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, particularly over the last few months. These Cuban soldiers, who are experienced with weaponry and trained for combat, come at a low cost, making it politically advantageous for Putin, as the loss of foreign soldiers doesn’t stir significant outcry in Moscow.
While the idea of Cuban mercenaries might seem novel, Cuba has a long history of such military engagements, dating back to 1963 when it sent troops to Algeria for a conflict with Morocco. The country formalized its irregular military service in 1973, which has evolved over the decades.
Additionally, Cuba has deployed medical brigades that not only provided healthcare but also served roles in military intelligence. In recent years, Cuba has sent troops to nations like Venezuela to assist with law enforcement and intelligence initiatives.
This practice of exporting military support has been a strategy for Cuba, aiming to promote its ideological beliefs in several countries, including Angola, Ethiopia, and Nicaragua, among others.
The regime has historically framed these actions as part of an ideological commitment to support other nations’ struggles for freedom. However, the current situation in Ukraine presents a shift where financial gain and political survival are the driving factors.
By 2025, reports suggested that the number of Cuban mercenaries in Ukraine had surged to approximately 20,000, showing a trend that could eventually see Cuba surpass other nations’ contributions of troops, including North Korea and several unstable African states.
Many young Cubans who enlisted in the Russian military were lured by promises of financial security and a brighter future for their families. Unfortunately, many have encountered harsh realities, including risk to their lives and feelings of betrayal.
The Russian government appears to be exploiting the dire economic conditions in Cuba and similar areas, offering incentives like $2,000 a month, Russian citizenship, and vacation time. Yet, many recruits find that these promises fall short, leading to a rise in defections and growing discontent.
After a failed revolt by Wagner mercenaries, Putin returned to seeking support, turning to Cuba for more skilled soldiers. Reports indicate an agreement between Russia and Cuba that allows the Cuban government to retain a significant portion of the soldiers’ earnings—a tactic reminiscent of their medical brigade approach.
The Cuban government maintains that it has not engaged in the conflict in Ukraine directly and claims to be unaware of any Cuban nationals fighting, despite legal actions that have led to a few convictions for mercenary activities within the country.
Cuban law prohibits mercenary work, with severe penalties including lengthy prison sentences or even the death penalty. Both Cuba and Russia have similar laws, but enforcement often varies based on political considerations.
The deployment of Cuban mercenaries illustrates Moscow’s struggles with morale and manpower in the ongoing conflict. What initially began as a brief military operation has escalated into a prolonged war.
The involvement of thousands of Cuban mercenaries highlights both the desperation of the Cuban regime and the broader human rights violations occurring. Such actions warrant global condemnation and must be recognized as a breach of humanitarian norms.
Moreover, Cuba must acknowledge the abuses faced by its young soldiers, some as young as 17, who have been subjected to manipulation and mistreatment. The regime’s assertions of ignorance regarding these occurrences seem insincere.
The international community needs to take a firm stance on the implications of these actions against the Cuban populace, particularly within the context of the conflict involving Ukraine. These abuses cannot go unchecked.
