Russian Defence Minister Andrei Belousov has reaffirmed his country’s commitment to strengthening military cooperation with Libya and enhancing the capabilities of the Libyan Armed Forces.
In a congratulatory message to General Saddam Haftar, Deputy Commander of the Libyan National Army (LNA), Belousov praised Haftar’s vital role in serving Libya, noting that his promotion to the rank of General marks a significant milestone in his military career.
The Russian minister expressed confidence that closer military ties between Moscow and Benghazi would contribute to bolstering Libya’s national security and advancing regional stability.
Belousov also underscored Russia’s readiness to continue supporting Libya in the defence sector, adding that this partnership would lead to new achievements in both military and defence cooperation.
Libya has been in chaos since a NATO-backed uprising toppled longtime leader Muammar Gaddafi in 2011. The county has for years been split between rival administrations.
Libya’s economy, heavily reliant on oil, has suffered due to the ongoing conflict. The instability has led to fluctuations in oil production and prices, impacting the global oil market and Libya’s economy.
The conflict has led to a significant humanitarian crisis in Libya, with thousands of people killed, and many more displaced. Migrants and refugees using Libya as a transit point to Europe have also faced dire conditions.
The planned elections for December 2021 were delayed due to disagreements over election laws and the eligibility of certain candidates. This delay has raised concerns about the feasibility of a peaceful political transition.
Despite the ceasefire, security remains a significant concern with sporadic fighting and the presence of mercenaries and foreign fighters. The unification of the military and the removal of foreign forces are crucial challenges.
