In a significant development for North Africa’s geopolitical landscape, Russia has increased its military presence in Libya, enhancing its facilities at key air bases throughout 2024. According to satellite imagery analysis, Russia has expanded its infrastructure and increased weapons at three air bases in Libya, marking a notable escalation in its military activities in the region.
Reports confirm that Russian military aircraft continue to regularly land at Brak Al-Shati and Al-Jufra air bases, indicating ongoing supply operations. Additionally, Russia has upgraded infrastructure at Brak Al-Shati, renovating its airstrip to support military aircraft landings.
Furthermore, Russia has reportedly completed extensive renovations at Al-Qardabiya base, including runway fortifications and bolstered defense systems. It has been noted that Haftar’s forces, who control eastern Libya, now require formal approval from Moscow to access these strategically important bases.
Russia’s growing presence in Libya coincides with its deepening ties with the Libyan National Army (LNA) led by Khalifa Haftar. This relationship is seen as part of a broader strategy by Russia to increase its influence in the region. Reports also suggest that Russia aims to secure control over Libya’s energy resources.
Libya, which holds some of the largest untapped oil reserves in the world, has the potential to become a crucial energy supplier to Europe. If political reconciliation is achieved between Haftar’s eastern government and the Tripoli-based government of Fayez al-Dbeibah in the west, Libya’s energy resources could play a significant role in the global energy market.
The increasing Russian presence in Libya underscores the shifting power dynamics in the region. As Russia continues to expand its influence, the evolving geopolitical scene could have far-reaching implications for Europe’s energy future and the broader African continent.