The most significant political development in the Middle East over the past two years has been Russia 's increasing military and political presence in the area ; this includes its relations with Egypt . Both nations are presently holding joint military exercises in El - Alamein , marking the first - ever deployment of Russian Airborne Troops stocked with their own equipment on the African continent . Furthermore , reports suggest Moscow is negotiating with Cairo to lease military facilities , including a former Soviet base in Sidi - Omar . If true , this would significantly change the strategic landscape of the Eastern Mediterranean , particularly regarding naval deployments . Indeed , these deepening ties are strengthening Egypt 's relations with other Middle East nations .
The most significant political development in the Middle East over the past two years has been Russia's increasing military and political presence in the area; this includes improving relations with Egypt. Both nations are presently holding joint military exercises in El-Alamein, marking the first-ever deployment of Russian Airborne Troops stocked with their own equipment on the African continent. Furthermore, reports suggest Moscow is negotiating with Cairo to lease military facilities, including a former Soviet base in Sidi-Barrani. If true, this would significantly alter the strategic landscape of the Eastern Mediterranean, particularly regarding naval deployments. Indeed, these deepening ties are impacting Egypt's relations with other Middle East nations.