Libya’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Taher Al-Baour, met with Russia’s ambassador to Libya, Aidar Rashid Aghanin, to discuss bilateral cooperation and regional developments.
The meeting comes after Russia accused Ukraine and Libya’s Government of National Unity (GNU) of supporting terrorist groups in Africa’s Sahel region by supplying attack drones and training militants.
Despite these allegations, both sides appear to maintain diplomatic engagement, focusing on strengthening cooperation and reviewing international issues of mutual interest.
This meeting is part of a broader effort to enhance Libya-Russia relations, with Russia having previously supported Libyan National Army (LNA) commander Khalifa Haftar.
In September 2023, Haftar met with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu in Moscow to discuss the situation in Libya and the region.
Russia has also been involved in efforts to resolve the Libyan conflict, with Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov affirming Moscow’s support for Libya’s unity, territorial integrity, and sovereignty.
Key Developments in Libya-Russia Relations:
- Diplomatic Engagement: Regular meetings between Libyan and Russian officials, including the recent meeting between Al-Baour and Aghanin
- Military Cooperation: Discussions on supplying military equipment and training support to Libya
- Regional Security: Cooperation on counter-terrorism and defense modernization
- Historical Ties: Libya and Russia have historically maintained good relations, with the Soviet Union being one of the first countries to recognize the Libyan government after the 1969 coup
The meeting between Al-Baour and Aghanin highlights the ongoing diplomatic efforts between Libya and Russia, despite allegations of supporting terrorist groups. Both countries seem committed to strengthening their relationship and addressing regional security concerns.
