Russia has declared its backing for Raúl Castro following an arrest warrant issued by the European Union. The warning attached to the story says an escalation against Cuba could destabilize Latin America. The warrant has put Havana in direct conflict with a major political and economic bloc. Moscow’s position may complicate efforts by European governments to isolate the Cuban government. Countries across the region could face diplomatic or economic disruption if the confrontation broadens. The report did not identify the legal grounds for the warrant or the measures attached to it. It also gave no timeline for possible EU action against Castro.