Russian communist leader Ivan Melnikov honoured by Cuba

Images via the PCC and the State Duma of Russia

By Yuniel Labaceno Romero, translated from the Spanish

MOSCOW, Russian Federation - On Wednesday, Ivan Melnikov, who exemplifies the unbreakable bond between Cuba and Russia like few others, and is affectionately known as a "friend, comrade, and brother" of the Cuban people, was awarded the Order of Solidarity. Melnikov serves as the first vice president of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of the Russian Federation and of the State Duma. The award was presented by Roberto Morales Ojeda, a member of the Political Bureau and Secretary of Organization of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Cuba (PCC).

During the ceremony at the State Duma headquarters, a presidential decree was read acknowledging that, throughout his political career, the Russian communist leader "has admired Commander in Chief Fidel Castro Ruz," was "highly active in the fight for the liberation of the Five Heroes," and "has upheld a historic and unconditional friendship, demonstrating proven loyalty and commitment to the Cuban Revolution."

In this context, Morales Ojeda highlighted that since the challenging 1990s, marked by the disappearance of the socialist bloc and the disintegration of the Soviet Union, Melnikov spoke out in defense of our Homeland when few believed in its survival. He also noted that Melnikov has opposed the United States' hostile policy against our country, especially in the face of the intensified blockade.

He emphasized that the existing relationship between Havana and Moscow is not just a temporary alliance of convenience, but a strategic partnership rooted in a shared worldview, a commitment to fighting imperialism, and a strong belief in independence and sovereignty. "It is the continuation of a bond that safeguarded the very existence of the Cuban Revolution and that today is renewed in the face of new challenges."

"This relationship is, above all, between our peoples. And it is at this level that the figure of comrade Ivan Melnikov becomes exceptionally relevant," said the Secretary of Organization of the Central Committee of the Party and stressed that he saw solidarity as a loaded weapon with potential for the future. "He has worked tirelessly to promote mutual understanding and to defend, in every forum and in every tribune, the justice of the Cuban cause."

"By conferring the Order of Solidarity upon him, we are doing nothing more than repaying a small portion of the immense debt of gratitude we owe him," said Morales Ojeda, who asked that it "serve as a constant reminder that, for Cuba, Russia is and will remain a strategic ally and a brother. And that the figure of Ivan Melnikov will forever be linked to the history of this victorious brotherhood."

In expressing gratitude for the recognition, Melnikov said it gave him the opportunity to work for the development of Russian-Cuban cooperation. "To me, these relationships likely mean more than just friendship.," while adding that "in the current conditions and circumstances, when the world is changing and the unipolar world is fading away, friendship between Russia and Cuba is necessary and not only for our countries. It is broader than that. It is a key factor in international politics."

Vyacheslav Volodin, Speaker of the State Duma, and Gennady Zyuganov of the Communist Party of the Russian Federation, who presided over the award ceremony, extolled the duty of both institutions to foster the advancement of strategic bilateral cooperation in political, legislative, economic, and commercial areas. In addition, they emphasized the enduring legacy of Fidel Castro Ruz, the historical leader of the Cuban Revolution, nine years after his passing.

"A friend in adversity is a true friend. When we talk about challenges, we can overcome them together. And when you have a shoulder to lean on like Cuba's, it's easier to win. Historical experience demonstrates that our nations reach their development objectives through persistence, determination, and resilience. Thus, victory will be ours." Volodin said.

Zyuganov, meanwhile, stressed that Cuba has been a moral example for more than half a century, a model of the struggle for justice, sovereignty and genuine independence: "It is no coincidence that Cuba is known throughout the world as an island of freedom, of brave and true heroes," he said, while adding that "this is not just a award; it is a celebration of solidarity, friendship and peace in the name of Cuba and the future of our people."

Following the award ceremony, top officials from the Communist Party and the State Duma of the Russian Federation engaged in discussions with Morales Ojeda. During these exchanges, the Communist Party of Cuba reaffirmed its strong commitment to further strengthen and deepen its relations with these organizations, as well as to remain united in the fight against imperialism and fascism.

After learning about the commemorative program for the centenary of Commander in Chief Fidel Castro Ruz's birth, they mentioned that this date will be celebrated in Russia as though it were "our national holiday." Meanwhile, the Secretary of Organization of the PCC's Central Committee confirmed that "we perceive every challenge you encounter as our own and celebrate each of your victories as ours. We are a united family."

This work was translated and shared via a License CC-BY-NC