Egypt’s Sisi Negotiates Arms Deal With Russia

{{Egypt’s military leader Marshal Abdel Fattah el-Sisi was warmly received by Russian President Vladimir Putin yesterday during his first trip abroad following his seizure of power in a coup last year.}}

In a show of support for the Egyptian leader, Putin offered what appeared to be an endorsement for el-Sisi’s decision to run in an upcoming presidential election in the politically turbulent Middle Eastern nation.

“This is a very important decision, to take on such a mission for the fate of the Egyptian people. I wish you success, both personally and as a representative of the Russian people,” Putin said.

El-Sisi’s visit to Moscow points to a potential pivot toward Russia by Egypt – traditionally a stalwart US ally – that could dramatically reorient international relations in the Middle East.

At the meeting, El-Sisi stressed the need for Russia and Egypt to work together on combating terrorism, citing recent events in Syria as an example of terrorists threatening a country’s security.