Egypt has enacted travel restrictions for military-aged men to Russia and Ukraine, necessitating security approval amid fears of recruitment into foreign militaries. The move responds to both national security concerns and the war’s economic toll on the country. Key figures highlight the risks posed by returning combat veterans and the need for vigilance.
Egyptian authorities have implemented new travel regulations targeting males aged 18 to 35, who are considered at military age, for travel to Ukraine and Russia. These measures require mandatory approval from the security establishment due to concerns that Egyptian nationals may recruit for the ongoing conflict in those countries, where casualties have been significant.
This regulatory action follows alarm raised by lawmakers and security experts regarding potential recruitment of Egyptian citizens into foreign militaries. “The new regulations are important for the protection of Egypt’s national security,” stated Ibrahim al-Masri, a member of the Egyptian parliament’s Committee on Defence and National Security.
The ongoing war in Ukraine and Russia has adversely impacted Egypt’s economy, particularly its tourism sector, as Russian and Ukrainian visitors form a large portion of tourists annually. Furthermore, it has disrupted Egypt’s agricultural imports, making the country resort to alternative sources for cereals, elevating costs in the process.
Concerns were intensified after a video surfaced, purportedly showing an Egyptian national fighting with the Russian army, indicating the recruitment of Egyptians in this conflict. The exact number of Egyptians involved in the war remains unknown, though observers estimate it could be in the hundreds to thousands, particularly among students struggling to finance their education in Russia.
Security analysts express worry that many Egyptian students may be susceptible to recruitment due to financial challenges. General Mohamed al-Ghabari emphasized the appeal Russia holds for foreigners joining its military, particularly as it faces manpower shortages. Awareness campaigns are deemed essential to inform Egyptian youth about the risks of international military recruitment.
While many Egyptian students returned home at the onset of the conflict, some in Russia remained, due to the financial attractivity of its universities. Security experts warn that those who enlist in foreign militaries could pose a significant threat to national security upon their return. Historical precedents from the Afghan conflict illustrate the potential challenges posed by returning veterans.
Despite attempts to maintain neutrality amid the war, Egypt’s complex relationships with both Ukraine and Russia complicate the situation. It is reported through an embassy source that the new regulations reflect heightened scrutiny of travel permissions for Egyptians wishing to visit Russia, amid fears of military recruitment.
In summary, Egypt’s new travel restrictions for military-aged men heading to Ukraine and Russia stem from national security concerns regarding recruitment into foreign militaries. The war’s economic impact on Egypt, combined with the potential for citizens to be drawn into military conflict abroad, has brought urgent scrutiny. The proactive measures taken aim to protect both the nation’s citizens and its security environment in the face of growing external tensions.
Original Source: www.newarab.com
