Putin denies Russia plans to reopen spy base in Cuba

The Lourdes base near Havana was used by the Soviets to spy on the US during the Cold War. Speaking at the Brics summit in Brazil, Mr Putin said Russia could “meet its defence needs without this component”.

 

Russia’s Kommersant newspaper had earlier reported that Russia and Cuba had agreed to reopen the spy facility. Mr Putin closed the base in 2001, citing concerns over its cost.

 

The paper said the deal to make the base operational again had been reached during Mr Putin’s visit to Cuba last week.

Read More: BBC News – Putin denies Russia plans to reopen spy base in Cuba.