Introduction

Khalifa Haftar plays a crucial role in Russia’s strategic plans for Libya, serving as Moscow’s primary partner and conduit for expanding its influence in the country. Russia’s relationship with Haftar has evolved significantly over the years, becoming increasingly important for both parties.

Russia’s Support for Haftar

Russia has provided substantial backing to Haftar and his Libyan National Army (LNA) in various forms:

Military assistance

Russia has supplied Haftar with arms, advisors, and mercenaries, including the Wagner Group. The number of Russian mercenaries in Libya is estimated to be between 1,000 and 1,500.

Diplomatic support

Moscow has provided diplomatic cover for Haftar at the UN, including blocking resolutions condemning his actions.

Economic aid

Russia has made counterfeit cash infusions to support Haftar’s operations.

Strategic military presence

There are reports of Russia pushing Haftar to allow the establishment of air and naval bases in Libya.

Haftar’s Strategic Value to Russia

Haftar’s position in eastern Libya offers several advantages to Russia:

Access to resources

Through Haftar, Russia aims to control Libya’s vast oil reserves and gold deposits.

Geopolitical influence

Haftar’s control over eastern Libya provides Russia with a strategic foothold in the Mediterranean and North Africa.

Power projection

Libya serves as a platform for Russia to extend its reach into the Sahel region.

Counterbalance to Western influence: By supporting Haftar, Russia challenges NATO and EU interests in the region.

Evolving Relationship

While Russia maintains strong ties with Haftar, it has also shown pragmatism in its approach:

Hedging strategy

Russia keeps communication channels open with other Libyan factions, including the UN-backed government.

Long-term vision

Moscow is cultivating ties with Haftar’s inner circle, potentially preparing for a post-Haftar scenario.

Balancing act

Russia supports Haftar while also engaging with Libya’s interim government to maintain influence regardless of political changes.

Recent Developments

Russia continues to demonstrate its commitment to Haftar:

High-level meetings

Haftar has visited Moscow multiple times, including a tour of the Russian aircraft carrier Admiral Kuznetsov.

Ongoing military support

Russia recently pledged to enhance the capabilities of Haftar’s forces, as stated by Russian Deputy Defense Minister Yunus-Bek Yevkurov.

Strategic negotiations

There are reports of Russia seeking access to ports in eastern Libya for its warships, potentially in Benghazi or Tobruk.

Conclusion

Khalifa Haftar remains a key figure in Russia’s Libya strategy, providing Moscow with a means to project power, secure economic interests, and challenge Western influence in the region.

However, Russia’s approach is multifaceted, maintaining flexibility to adapt to Libya’s complex and evolving political landscape.

Turkey must be wondering what happened.‘Putin is far more brilliant than Erdogan. He took over Syria by betraying Russia. Now Russia sitting in Libya will control Middle East from there. Turkey lost all, sitting in an unstable region which will take 100 years to recover from economic crisis.