Egypt Implements New Travel Restrictions for Citizens Traveling to Russia and Ukraine

Egypt has introduced new travel regulations for its citizens, particularly those aged 18 to 35, requiring security approval before traveling to Russia and Ukraine. This initiative responds to concerns about the potential recruitment of Egyptians into foreign militaries amid the ongoing war, which has also negatively affected Egypt’s economy, especially its tourism and agricultural sectors. Security analysts warn about the risks of returning recruits posing threats to national security.

Egypt has implemented new travel regulations for its citizens, particularly targeting those aged 18 to 35 wishing to visit Russia and Ukraine. Travelers must now secure mandatory approval from Egyptian security agencies before departure. This measure is a response to concerns voiced by lawmakers and security experts regarding the potential recruitment of Egyptians into foreign militaries amid the ongoing conflict between the two nations, which has resulted in significant casualties and foreign recruitments.

Ibrahim al-Masri, a member of the Egyptian parliament’s Committee on Defence and National Security, emphasized the necessity of these regulations, stating they aim to protect Egypt’s national security. He expressed concern that Egyptian students might be lured into becoming mercenaries in proxy wars, noting that those recruited could eventually return and pose a security threat. He described the regulations as “timely” for the protection of the nation’s interests.

The Russian-Ukrainian conflict has adversely affected the Egyptian economy, particularly tourism, as many Russian and Ukrainian tourists previously flocked to Egypt. Additionally, the country has been reliant on these nations for agricultural imports, especially cereals. The war has forced Egypt to seek alternative sources for these goods, leading to increased costs and supply challenges.

The risks posed by the conflict extend to the potential recruitment of Egyptians, as evidenced by a recent video interview of an Egyptian national held by Ukrainian troops while fighting alongside Russian forces. The individual discussed how he was coerced into joining the Russian army in exchange for release from imprisonment. Current estimates regarding the number of Egyptian nationals involved in the conflict remain unclear, yet concerns suggest the figure could range from hundreds to thousands.

In 2022, approximately 50,000 Egyptians lived and studied in Russia, with over 12,000 attending Russian academic institutions, marking a significant increase in student numbers. Analysts warn that financial difficulties may tempt these students into military enlistment. General Mohamed al-Ghabari highlighted that Russia is offering substantial incentives to foreign volunteers, emphasizing the urgent need for raising awareness among Egyptian youth regarding the dangers associated with recruitment into foreign forces.

Following the outbreak of war in Ukraine, most Egyptian students returned home; however, many in Russia continued their studies. Analysts caution that joining foreign militaries presents not only a risk for these students but also potential national security issues for Egypt upon their return. This situation recalls Egypt’s struggles post-1979 with returning nationals who had joined jihadist groups in Afghanistan.

Egypt strives to maintain neutrality amid the conflict while grappling with security risks stemming from its nationals who have enlisted in foreign militaries. The country’s historical ties with both Kyiv and Moscow complicate its position; Egypt relies heavily on wheat imports from these nations and collaborates militarily with Russia. The new travel regulations reflect Cairo’s efforts to manage these complex dynamics and safeguard its national security amidst foreign military conflicts involving its citizens.

Inquiries to the Russian embassy in Cairo regarding these recruitment concerns remained unanswered, although sources confirmed the application of stricter travel measures for Egyptians wishing to visit Russia, including requiring enhanced regulatory compliance for travel permissions.

In summary, Egypt’s new travel regulations for citizens heading to Russia and Ukraine are intended to safeguard national security amid fears of military recruitment. These measures reflect the compounded impacts of the Russian-Ukrainian war on Egypt’s economy and raise important concerns regarding the return of nationals involved in foreign conflicts. As the situation evolves, Egypt seeks to navigate its complex relationships with both nations while protecting its citizens.

Original Source: www.newarab.com