Al-Arab London: The arrival of Russian warships in Tobruk is clear evidence of increasing Russian influence in Libya

The London newspaper Al-Arab confirmed in its English-language edition that the arrival of new Russian warships at the Tobruk base, namely the cruiser Varyag and the frigate Admiral Shaposhnikov, is clear evidence of the increasing Russian influence in Libya.

The London newspaper noted that the European Union and the United States greatly fear the growing Russian influence, so they have been trying for almost two years to win the affection of the American Khalifa Haftar.

It explained by saying that the various efforts of American and European officials towards Benghazi during the past two years are nothing but an attempt to win over Haftar and reduce Russian influence.

The report stated that Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni offered Haftar economic and security contracts and deals, in exchange for his pledge to cooperate in stopping the flow of migrants towards Europe.

The newspaper added, “The European and American moves towards Haftar show mounting Western fears about the impact of growing Russian influence on their interests in Libya and Africa in general.”

It went on to say, “There are clear Western fears that the Russian presence in Libya will enable Moscow to obtain five billion euros, in addition to more than 2.5 billion euros in smuggled gold. It has also controlled a diamond mine in Central Africa that generates a net annual income of $300 million.” .

It concluded by saying that there are also concerns among several parties in the western region, which prompted NATO Mufti Sadiq Al-Gharyani to raise the banner of jihad against the Russian forces.