Haftar discusses with the Russian Deputy Defense Minister Yevkuro Defense Cooperation

At the headquarters of the Libyan National Army (LNA), Field Marshal Khalifa Haftar received the Russian Deputy Defense Minister, Yunus-bek Yevkurov and his accompanying delegation.

Haftar welcomed the visiting delegation, emphasising the friendly relations between the two countries and the importance of enhancing these ties in military and economic fields.

The Russian Deputy Minister of Defense highlighted Russia’s contributions to developing the capabilities of the Libyan Armed Forces through training and efficiency enhancement. He also affirmed the commitment to joint cooperation in combating terrorism and extremism.

Days ago, the Special Representative of the Russian President for the Middle East and Africa and Deputy Foreign Minister, Mikhail Bogdanov, affirmed Moscow’s support for efforts aimed at achieving a swift and comprehensive resolution to the crisis in Libya.

He underscored the importance of maintaining Libya’s unity, territorial integrity, and sovereignty, according to a statement by the Russian Embassy in Libya, on Wednesday.

Bogdanov’s statement came during a meeting with Libya’s Ambassador to Russia, Mohammed Maghrawi. The meeting was held at Maghrawi’s request.

During the meeting, Bogdanov and Maghrawi exchanged views on the situation in Libya and discussed ways to further develop the traditionally friendly relations between Russia and Libya.

While Western powers accuse Russia of seeking to expand its influence and military presence in Libya through its ties with the Libyan National Army (LNA) in Benghazi, Moscow denies these allegations. Instead, Russia accuses the West of destroying Libya and interfering in its internal affairs.

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.

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.

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.