Russian air bridge to Libya marks strategic shift
The Kremlin has initiated an air bridge connecting Russia with the Al-Khadim base in eastern Libya, where Russian mercenaries are reportedly stationed, according to information from the Italian service Itamilradar, which monitors aircraft flights.
15 December 2024 09:47
This air bridge launch is part of a broader strategy by Moscow. Following the fall of Bashar al-Assad's regime in Syria, Russia is now turning its attention to eastern Libya.
According to the Itamilradar portal, two Il-76TD aircraft, owned by the Russian Ministry of Emergency Situations, have conducted multiple flights between Russia and Libya. These aircraft are often utilised for defence ministry missions. The flights were facilitated by Turkey's approval, as it has not closed its airspace to Russian planes.
The strategic importance of the Al-Khadim base
The Al-Khadim base is crucial to Russia's operations in the region. It serves as a hub for transferring equipment and personnel to mines controlled by the Wagner Group in the Central African Republic. From this base, Russia also smuggles weapons into Sudan, in violation of an embargo. This base accommodates Russian soldiers and mercenaries.
Russian activities in Libya
On Saturday, a Russian transport aircraft arrived in Libya, having previously been stationed in Syria. A Syrian security official, cited by the Reuters agency, indicated further transfers of Russian aircraft to Libya. Officially, Russia states it is engaged in talks with Syrian rebels to maintain its military bases in Syria.
In western Libya, which is under the control of the Government of National Unity, a Russian national was detained on charges of activities detrimental to public order. The Russian Embassy has advised its citizens against travelling to the western part of Libya.
