USA flexes aerial might over sirte, counters Russian influence
The USA conducted air exercises near the base of Russian mercenaries in Libya, sending a message to Moscow about the unacceptability of its influence in the region.
The US Africa Command (Africom) organized air exercises at the end of February near the city of Sirte, where the base of the Russian Wagner Group is located. The maneuvers aimed to send Moscow a signal that the strengthening of Russian influence in Libya is not accepted.
Libyan officers from both sides of the divided country participated in the exercises, collaborating with Americans in simulated missions using B-52H Stratofortress bombers.
The presence of these aircraft over Libya indicates that both the USA and Russia are striving to extend their influence in this strategically important region.
Americans train with bombers. A clear signal to Russia
Russia has maintained a presence in Libya for years, supporting Marshal Khalifa Haftar, who controls the eastern regions of the country. Despite pressure from the USA, Moscow has managed to consolidate its military infrastructure, including advanced air defence systems like the S-400.
The United States is trying to reduce Russian influence on Haftar by offering him military cooperation with the forces of western Libya. The US aim is to protect Libyan oil infrastructure from Russian influence and create a barrier against further penetration of the region by Moscow.
Libya remains divided between the Government of National Accord in Tripoli and Haftar’s Libyan National Army. This division enables external powers such as Russia, Turkey, and the USA to pursue their own interests in the unstable country.
