Russian army officials received in Libya after an invitation from Khalifa Haftar

Russian military officials, including Russia’s Deputy Defense Minister, arrived in Libya on Tuesday after receiving an invitation from pro-Moscow military strongman Khalifa Haftar.

Haftar, who supports the country’s eastern administration, is close to the private Russian mercenary group Wagner, whose troops guard the country’s military and oil infrastructure.

“This is the first official visit of a Russian military delegation to Libya,” the Russian Defense Ministry said.

In its statement, we learn that the visit, led by Deputy Defense Minister Yunus-bek Yevkurov, was organized after talks with Libya during the Army-2023 exhibition and the Moscow Security Conference. international earlier this month.

“During the visit, it is planned to discuss the prospects for cooperation in the fight against international terrorism and other issues of joint action,” the statement added.

Read also: Niger: 7,000 African migrants stranded

The meeting came amid renewed interest in Russia’s activities in Africa, after Wagner chief Eugene Prigojine announced in a video released on Monday that his group was in the process of returning Africa ” more free “.

Wagner maintains a strong military presence in Africa, where it has forged partnerships with several countries, including Mali and the Central African Republic. He is actively working to expand his influence.

→ READ ALSO: Threads is now available in web version

→ READ ALSO: Niger: 7,000 African migrants stranded

→ READ ALSO: Concern in Niger: The salaries of civil servants on hold

👉 Click here to join news group on Whatsapp