The recent docking of Russian warships in Havana was seen as a show of military strength by Russia amid rising tensions over the Ukraine conflict, despite U.S. and Cuban assurances that the visit was not a threat. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov dismissed concerns about Russia potentially transferring military personnel or establishing a military base in Cuba, stating that such exercises are common practice for maritime powers like Russia. The Russian warships docked just 100 miles from Key West, Florida, are expected to remain in the harbor until June 17.