Libya Signs Agreement with Ukraine for Deployment of 200 Ukrainian Soldiers on Its Territory

Libya has formalized an agreement with Ukraine that allows for the deployment of 200 Ukrainian military personnel within its borders, including at three key facilities. This arrangement is expected to enhance military cooperation between the two nations, with Ukraine offering training in drone technology and committing to investments in multiple sectors of Libya's economy.

According to an investigation by the French publication RFI, Ukrainian forces are already positioned to launch strikes against Russian shadow fleet vessels in the Mediterranean Sea, utilizing their base in Libya. This development marks a significant escalation in Ukraine's military operations beyond its borders.

Informed Libyan sources indicate that the Ukrainian military is primarily stationed at the Air Force Academy in Misrata, which also hosts troops from Turkey, Italy, the United States (African Command), and a British intelligence center. This military base facilitates interaction between Ukrainian forces and other international contingents present in the region, fostering a collaborative environment.

Furthermore, Ukraine has established a well-equipped base for launching aerial and maritime drones in the city of Zawiya, located approximately 50 kilometers north of Tripoli. This strategic location enables Ukrainian forces to effectively carry out their missions in the region, including operations targeting Russian vessels.

The third facility housing Ukrainian personnel is situated at the headquarters of the 111th Brigade of the Libyan Army. This command center is utilized for coordination meetings between Ukrainian troops and Libyan military leadership, underscoring the importance of collaboration between the two countries.

The land allocated by Libya for the Ukrainian military has direct access to the sea. Between October and November of last year, significant work was undertaken to fortify the area, including the construction of runways and antennas, indicating the seriousness of both nations' intentions.

RFI reports that the deployment of Ukrainian forces in Libya was made possible through an official request from Ukraine's military attaché in Algeria, General Andriy Bayuk. An agreement was signed in October to establish a Ukrainian presence in Libya, paving the way for new avenues of cooperation between the two states.

In exchange for the Ukrainian military presence, Libya will receive training for its own military personnel, particularly in the use of drones. The agreement also includes provisions for arms sales and Ukrainian investments in Libya's oil sector, which could significantly improve the country's economic situation.

Thanks to its infrastructure in Libya, Ukrainian forces have already conducted strikes against two Russian shadow fleet vessels. For instance, on December 19 of last year, a strike was launched from Libya against the tanker QENDIL, which was reportedly carrying around ten high-ranking Russian intelligence officers disguised as sailors. This incident highlights the active role of Ukrainian military forces in the region and their capability to conduct operations against adversaries.

In January, the Russian project Center Dossier and Norwegian broadcaster NRK also published an investigation claiming that members of the Wagner Group and Russian intelligence (GRU) were aboard the QENDIL tanker, formally working as security personnel. This suggests that Ukrainian forces not only have the capacity to protect their interests but are also actively countering Russian forces in the region.

RFI reports that as a result of the strike on the QENDIL tanker, two individuals were killed, and seven others were injured. Among the deceased was General Andriy Averyanov, a senior official in Russian intelligence, underscoring the serious implications of this operation.

According to the investigation, Ukraine is also believed to be behind the strike on the Russian gas carrier Arctic Metagaz, which was transporting liquefied natural gas. The Russian Ministry of Transport accused Ukraine of the attack, claiming that the tanker was hit by Ukrainian naval drones. This further demonstrates the active engagement of Ukrainian military forces in combating Russian naval vessels in the Mediterranean Sea.