The British newspaper, Daily Express, said that Russia is looking to control Libyan oil production facilities in an attempt to force Europe and monopolize energy sources.
The newspaper added that Russian President Vladimir Putin controls more than 3,000 mercenary soldiers in Libya, and uses the country as a center from which he exercises his influence over many African countries, and provides dictators with armed support.
The newspaper pointed out that Moscow’s steps in Libya come after Haftar’s closure of the Sharara oil field, which is operated by a group of European companies, adding that the biggest winner is Putin, who now has the opportunity to replace European oil companies with the Russian company Gazprom.
Russia had previously revealed the formation of a combat group of 20,000 soldiers under the name “African Corps” that carries out operations in 5 African countries.
The newspaper added that by mid-2024, the “African Corps” will operate in Burkina Faso, Libya, Mali, the Central African Republic and Niger, and will take over the work of the Wagner military company.
According to the newspaper, the Russian Corps will make the Central African Republic its new regional headquarters, revealing that Moscow is planning to recruit former Wagner fighters and new recruits to join the Corps.
Source: Daily Express + Bloomberg
2024-08-21 13:13:08