Similarities: Superpower Interest and Economic Dependency
Geopolitical Significance
- Cuba: Its proximity to the United States made it a strategic focal point for the Soviet Union.
- Egypt: Its control of the Suez Canal linked it to both superpowers' interests in the Middle East.
Both countries joined the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM)to avoid direct alignment with either superpower, yet relied on the Soviet Unionfor economicand military aid.
Economic Aid and Military Support
- Cuba: Received substantial Soviet aid, including oil, machinery, and military equipment.
- Egypt: Relied on Soviet support for infrastructure projects like the Aswan High Dam and military aid during conflicts with Israel.
The Aswan High Damin Egypt, completed with Soviet assistance, transformed Egypt's agriculture and energy sectors, while Soviet oil shipments to Cuba sustained its economy despite the U.S. embargo.
Revolutionary Ideologies and Hostility from the USA
- Cuba: Castro's Marxist-Leninist regime faced U.S. invasions, sabotage, and a complete economic embargo.
- Egypt: Nasser's Arab nationalism and socialist policies led to U.S. hostility, though not to the extent faced by Cuba.
