Russia is expanding its military presence in Libya by relocating troops and equipment to the Maaten Al Sarra base near Chad and Sudan. This strategic site aims to enhance Russian control over the Sahel region. Following the Assad regime’s decline, Russia is focusing on military operations in Africa, cooperating with local tribes, and strengthening ties with Sudanese leaders.
Recent reports indicate that Russia is significantly increasing its military footprint in Libya by relocating troops and materiel to the Maaten Al Sarra base, which is strategically positioned near the borders of Chad and Sudan. According to the Italian news agency Nova, this base, historically utilized during the Libyan-Chadian conflict in the 1980s, has become central to Russia’s operations aimed at enhancing its influence in the Sahel region, an emerging focus of Moscow’s geopolitical strategy.
In December 2024, the Russian Federation dispatched Syrian soldiers to reinstate the Maaten Al Sarra base, intending to convert it into a strategic hub for military endeavors across Africa. This initiative includes the direct supply of resources to nations such as Mali, Burkina Faso, and potentially Sudan. This development represents a new era of Russian expansion in Africa, particularly in light of recent setbacks in Syria following the Assad regime’s decline.
Reports suggest that former Syrian army personnel, associated with Bashar al-Assad’s regime, have collaborated with Russian technical teams to rejuvenate the base. Essential infrastructure enhancements, including runways and storage facilities, are being prioritized. This site is poised to become a critical logistics center for Russian military activities throughout Africa.
Moreover, the agency has noted an increased Russian engagement with local tribal communities in southern Libya, which may facilitate the establishment of strategic alliances. These alliances are viewed as a crucial component of Russia’s broader strategy for expanding its influence in Africa amid the shifts in power dynamics resulting from the Assad regime’s downfall.
A military convoy from the Tariq bin Ziyad Battalion, loyal to Saddam Haftar, has recently been dispatched to secure the Al-Sara base and the surrounding routes leading to Sudan. Additionally, it has been reported that Moscow has sought to distance itself from the Rapid Support Forces, aligned with Hemedti, while fostering closer ties with Abdel Fattah Al-Burhan, the current commander of the Sudanese Armed Forces.
Russia has reinforced its military operations at its four prominent air bases in Libya: Al-Khadim in the east, Al-Jufra centrally located, Brak Al-Shati in the southwestern region near Sabha, and Al-Qardabiya situated in Sirte. These bases are integral to solidifying Russia’s military infrastructure within the region.
The ongoing conflict dynamics in Libya, coupled with Russia’s strategic ambitions in Africa, highlight the significance of military bases like Maaten Al Sarra. This base’s historical relevance dates back to past conflicts, which informs its current importance in geopolitical maneuvers. Russia’s military activities in Africa, particularly following its challenges in Syria, indicate a shift in focus, aiming to enhance its influence across contested regions. The engagement with local tribal communities further illustrates the complexities of building alliances in a region characterized by diverse interests.
In summary, Russia’s intensified military presence in Libya, particularly at the Maaten Al Sarra base, marks a strategic move to reinforce its influence in Africa. This expansion is facilitated by collaboration with local and former Syrian military forces while fostering relationships with key local leaders. As Russia navigates its operations in the region, its focus on logistics and tribal alliances could play a significant role in reshaping the geopolitical landscape in North Africa.
Original Source: libyaobserver.ly
