Haftar’s Moscow visit signals renewed Russian role in Libya

Libya’s Chief of General Staff of the Armed Forces, Colonel General Khaled Haftar, held talks in Moscow with Russian Defense Minister Andrey Belousov during an official visit aimed at strengthening bilateral defense ties.

The discussions centred on prospects for cooperation in training, qualification, and development, alongside an exchange of views on the latest regional and international developments.

The visit underscores Russia’s growing role in Libya and the wider region at a time when the country continues to face deep political divisions.

Moscow has in recent years expanded its presence in eastern Libya through security partnerships and the involvement of Russian-linked contractors, while also positioning itself as a potential guarantor of stability.

Observers note that defense cooperation between the two sides draws on a long history of military relations dating back to the Soviet era, when Libya was a major recipient of Soviet arms and training under Muammar Gaddafi.

Today, Libyan military leaders see engagement with Russia as part of efforts to rebuild national security institutions and diversify international partnerships, while Russia views Libya as a strategic hub for its broader outreach in North Africa and the Mediterranean.