Steven Seagal could become face of Russian arms industry
The future face of Russia’s arms industry could be Steven Seagal -- someone with plenty of applicable experience, on the silver screen, anyway.
Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Rogozin said action movie star Seagal could lead an international marketing campaign for the Degtarev arms plant, according to the Associated Press, citing Russian news agencies. Rogozin accompanied the actor on a visit to the plant Tuesday.
“You’re ready to fight American [manufacturers] with your teeth and your intellect, and if Americans are prepared to promote and support you, that says we’re learning new ways to work on corporate warfare markets,” the AP quoted Rogozin as saying.
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This would not be the actor’s first foray into international relations. Seagal -- the star of films including “Above the Law,” “Hard to Kill” and “Under Siege” -- met Russian President Vladimir Putin in March.
Last week, he became an improbable diplomat when he opened doors for a delegation of American lawmakers there last week.
Seagal is the latest celebrity to make an eyebrow-raising diplomatic effort.
Earlier this year, former basketball player Dennis Rodman took a trip to North Korea and met with leader Kim Jong Un.
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Twitter: @rfaughnder
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