Report: Russia attempting to use Libya to exert control over Europe’s energy supplies

Russia is strengthening ties with eastern Libyan warlord General Haftar to disrupt European energy supplies and expand its influence in North Africa, according to a report in the trade publication Oil price.com. By leveraging Libya’s oil reserves and increasing its military presence, Russia aims to replace Western oil companies and gain increasing control of Libya’s energy resources. Moscow’s growing influence is evident through its support for Haftar, who recently shut down Libya’s El Sharara oil field, primarily affecting European clients. This move is seen as a tactic to pressure European countries, especially after a dispute involving Haftar’s son.

Libya’s potential interest in joining BRICS and Moscow’s military buildup highlight Russia’s strategy to exploit the country’s resources. With oil production at 1.36 million bpd, Libya plans to increase output to 2 million bpd by 2025. Moscow’s efforts align with its broader goal of targeting Europe’s energy supply while also gaining access to valuable minerals and metals in North Africa.