Trump eyes Libya’s energy wealth in $8 billion drive

The French magazine Jeune Afrique has reported that US President Donald Trump is focusing on Libya’s vital oil and gas sector as part of his broader African “resource diplomacy” strategy, based on the principle of “trade, not aid.”

According to the report, after prioritising rare and strategic minerals in other African countries, the Trump administration has now shifted its attention to Libya’s energy wealth.

In late July, Trump’s Senior Adviser for Africa, Massad Boulos, visited Libya and announced an agreement for ExxonMobil to return to operations in the country.

The deal grants offshore concessions in the Gulf of Sidra in partnership with the National Oil Corporation (NOC).

The magazine also highlighted a major deal between US-based Hill International and Mellitah Oil & Gas — a joint venture between the NOC and Italy’s Eni — valued at $235 million for project management services. This contract is part of an ambitious $8 billion offshore gas development programme.

Observers say these moves mark a renewed push by Washington to secure long-term access to Libya’s energy exports, a key pillar of the national economy and a critical asset in global energy markets.

Supporters argue such agreements could bring much-needed investment and technology to Libya’s energy industry, while critics warn they could deepen foreign influence and raise questions about national sovereignty.

The developments in Libya fit into Trump’s wider Africa policy, which has already seen the signing of major oil and refining contracts in several African states.

Analysts suggest the strategy aims to strengthen US economic and geopolitical influence in resource-rich regions while limiting the role of rivals such as China and Russia.