Russia said on May 21 that it would continue supporting Cuba despite increased US pressure and sanctions on the island nation.

The statement came after the US announced murder charges against former Cuban president Raul Castro, escalating its campaign against Cuba.

Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova pledged strong support for the Cuban people during what she called a difficult period.

She condemned US actions as interference in Cuba’s internal affairs and criticized the use of sanctions and threats, the Straits Times has reported.

Zakharova did not specify what support Russia would provide but accused the US of intolerance and reviving the Monroe Doctrine.