The Oil Price website said that Russia is working to strengthen its relations with the leader of the Karama Forces, Khalifa Haftar, with the aim of disrupting European energy supplies and expanding its geopolitical influence in North Africa.
The British website added in a report that Moscow is seeking to displace Western oil companies by exploiting Libya’s huge oil reserves and increasing its military presence in the main bases.
The website saw that Libya’s interest in joining the BRICS group, and Russia’s growing influence, highlights potential shifts in global alliances, which may put Europe’s energy supplies at risk.
The website indicated that Libya could supply Europe with huge quantities of oil and gas if a peace plan and power-sharing agreement were reached between Haftar in the east and Dabaiba in the west, noting the possibility of Moscow expelling Western oil and gas operators and replacing them with companies affiliated with it if this does not happen.
The site considered that if Moscow succeeds, it will not only be able to weaponize Libyan energy resources, but it will also be able to access precious metals in the country and in sub-Saharan Africa.
The site enhanced its information with what was revealed by the ICAD platform about Moscow’s establishment of several air bridges to the Brak Al-Shati base since last March and reporting an increase in its activity at 4 military bases “Al-Jufra, Al-Qarzabiyah, Al-Khadim, and the port of Tobruk,” indicating that Moscow is determined to use oil and gas areas in Eastern Libya as a gateway to Africa.
Source: Oil Price website
How might European nations respond strategically to mitigate risks associated with Russia’s partnerships in Libya?
Interview Between Time.news Editor and Energy Analyst Dr. Sarah Jenkins
Time.news Editor (T.N.E.): Welcome, Dr. Jenkins! Thank you for joining us today to discuss the dynamics at play in North Africa’s energy sector, particularly concerning Russia’s expanding influence.
Dr. Sarah Jenkins (Dr. J.): Thank you for having me! It’s a fascinating, albeit complex, situation that’s unfolding in that region.
T.N.E.: According to a recent article from the Oil Price website, Russia is actively strengthening ties with Khalifa Haftar, the leader of the Karama Forces. What do you see as the potential implications of this alliance for European energy supplies?
Dr. J.: This partnership could significantly disrupt European energy supplies. By aligning with Haftar, Russia can leverage his control over critical oil and gas resources, potentially curtailing Europe’s access to these supplies and creating a favorable energy landscape for Moscow. It’s a strategic move aimed at not only exerting geopolitical influence but also at reinforcing Russia’s position as a dominant player in the global energy market.
T.N.E.: How does this align with Russia’s broader foreign policy objectives, particularly in relation to Europe?
Dr. J.: It aligns perfectly with what we’ve seen from Russia over the last decade – a desire to reclaim its status as a superpower. By fostering relationships in North Africa, Russia is not just looking to disrupt European energy security; it’s also aiming to create dependencies. If European countries find themselves struggling for energy resources, they may become more amenable to Russian diplomatic stances on other geopolitical issues.
T.N.E.: Given the ongoing conflicts in Libya and the complex political landscape, how likely is it that this alliance will strengthen in the near future?
Dr. J.: While the situation is fluid, there seems to be room for this alliance to grow. Haftar’s forces have maintained significant control over eastern Libya’s oil fields. If Russia continues to provide military and logistical support, we could see a more consolidated foothold for both Russian interests and Haftar’s power. However, instability and internal divisions within Libya could also pose challenges to this partnership.
T.N.E.: What should European nations be doing to counteract this potential disruption to their energy supplies?
Dr. J.: European countries need to diversify their energy sources and strengthen their energy infrastructure. Investing in renewable energy, improving interconnections between countries, and developing strategic reserves can make them less reliant on any single supply route or geopolitically volatile regions. Additionally, fostering diplomatic ties with other North African nations could help counterbalance any influence Haftar gains from Russia.
T.N.E.: That makes a lot of sense. In your opinion, how could this situation evolve if Russia’s influence continues to grow in North Africa?
Dr. J.: Should Russia’s influence persist and consolidate, we might witness a realignment of power in North Africa that could lead to increased hostility toward Western interests in the region. This could also trigger a more aggressive response from NATO countries, straining relationships further. Ultimately, energy security will likely become a central theme in international relations, not just in Europe but globally.
T.N.E.: Dr. Jenkins, your insights are incredibly valuable, especially as these events unfold. Thank you for sharing your expertise with us today!
Dr. J.: Thank you for having me! I look forward to seeing how this story develops.