What was the Soviet goal with Cuba during the Cold War?

During the Cold War, the Soviet Union aimed to establish a stronghold in Cuba to expand its influence in the Western Hemisphere and counter U.S. dominance. By supporting Fidel Castro's regime, the Soviets sought to create a socialist ally close to American shores, which also included the deployment of nuclear missiles on the island. This strategic move culminated in the Cuban Missile Crisis of 1962, heightening tensions between the U.S. and the USSR and demonstrating the global stakes of Cold War rivalry. Ultimately, the Soviet goal was to challenge U.S. hegemony and promote the spread of communism in the region.