U.S. attempts to lure Haftar from Russian orbit

A U.S. Air Force B-52 bomber recently conducted a training mission over Libya in a bid to persuade eastern-based commander Khalifa Haftar to distance himself from Moscow, the Defence News reports. The visit, organized by U.S. Africa Command, included ground targeting exercises and meetings with Haftar’s forces, as Washington seeks to counter growing Russian influence in Libya.

Moscow has expanded its military presence in the country, with Russian troops at Brak al-Shati airbase increasing from 300 to 450 since November. Haftar and his sons recently visited Belarus, reinforcing ties with Russia, which provides air defense systems and military training.

Analysts remain skeptical of U.S. efforts. “B-52s won’t change his mind,” said Ben Fishman of the Washington Institute for Near East Policy. However, Haftar’s son Saddam has signaled interest in closer U.S. ties. With Donald Trump’s stance on Russia unclear, it remains to be seen whether Washington will challenge or tolerate Moscow’s growing footprint in Libya.