Putin Oversees El Dabaa NPP Reactor Installation, Holds Talks with Togolese President Gnassingbé

Historic Milestone for El Dabaa Nuclear Power Plant

Russian President Vladimir Putin today, November 19, 2025, participated via videoconference in a ceremony marking the installation of the reactor pressure vessel (RPV) for the first power unit of Egypt's El Dabaa Nuclear Power Plant (NPP). This event, described as a 'historic event' and a 'pivotal step' in the project's completion, also saw the participation of Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi.

The ceremony coincided with Egypt's fifth annual Nuclear Energy Day, commemorating the 2015 intergovernmental agreement between Egypt and Russia for the plant's construction and operation. The RPV, a critical component, was manufactured in Russia and arrived at the El Dabaa site in October 2025 after a 20-day sea journey. The El Dabaa NPP, Egypt's first nuclear power plant, is being constructed by Russia's Rosatom State Corporation. It is designed to feature four VVER-1200 units, each with a capacity of 1,200 megawatts, contributing a total of 4.8 GW to Egypt's energy grid.

Under the comprehensive contractual framework, Russia is committed to supplying nuclear fuel for the plant's entire operational lifetime, assisting in personnel training, and providing support for the first 10 years of operation and maintenance. The project, with an estimated cost of $30 billion, is largely financed by Russia through a state loan covering 85% of the expenses.

Discussions with Togolese President Faure Gnassingbé

Later on the same day, President Putin held talks in Moscow with Togolese President Faure Gnassingbé, who is on a working visit to Russia. The discussions focused on enhancing political and trade-economic cooperation between the two nations, as well as addressing current regional issues.

Key topics included the deteriorating security situation in the Sahel, particularly in Mali, and potential agreements on trade, transport, and infrastructure. President Gnassingbé also expressed an interest in facilitating the importation of fertilizers for the West African sub-region.

Strengthening Russia-Togo Relations

The meeting underscores the growing ties between Russia and Togo. In October 2025, the Russian Duma ratified a military cooperation agreement with Togo, which includes provisions for training the Togolese Armed Forces, intelligence sharing, and joint exercises. This agreement is part of Russia's broader strategy to expand its security footprint in Africa. Furthermore, Russia is expected to open an embassy in Togo's capital, Lomé, in 2025, signaling a deepening diplomatic presence. While bilateral trade currently remains modest, primarily involving Russian mineral fertilizers and Togolese fruits and nuts, both countries anticipate an increase in economic exchanges.