Libyan actors

Tracking developments of Libyan Actors in Libya’s security space including armed group activity, state security operations and political activities pertaining to Libya’s security.

20 May – 26 May: AFRICOM claims Russia deployed military aircraft in Libya

On 26 May, AFRICOM assessed that Russia had deployed military fighter aircraft to Libya. Just before, PMCs belonging to the Russian Wagner Group had entered Bani Walid and some were being evacuated by air to Jufra. Over the last week, politicians from the US, Turkey, UAE, France and the UN called for a political solution in Libya.

20 May – 26 May: LNA announces new aerial campaign

On 21 May, the LNA announced a new aerial campaign. Before, Russia seems to have had transferred fighters and attack jets to Jufra airbase. Over the last week, the siege by GNA forces on the LNA’s last western stronghold of Tarhouna continued.

13 May – 19 May: Saleh has multiple exchanges about his proposed roadmap

On 17 May, the Speaker of the HoR, Saleh, had a phone conversation with the German Ambassador Owcza. This followed exchanges with the Maltese and British Ambassadors. On 16 May, the head of the GNA, al-Serraj, held a phone call with the NATO Secretary-General Stoltenberg. Just a day before, Serraj, held a phone call with Turkish President Erdogan. On 15 May, the second batch of Turkish medical supplies delivered through Tunisia’s Djerba Airport arrived in Tripoli.

13 May – 19 May: GNA takes over Watiya airbase

On 18 May, LNA forces stationed at Watiya left the airbase and GNA forces took over. The same day GNA-aligned Turkish drones targeted suspected LNA fuel trucks north of the LNA-controlled Jufra airbase. On 19 May, the LNA spokesperson, Mesmari, indicated that LNA forces would be withdrawing from the southern Tripoli frontlines as the month of Ramadan comes closer to the Eid al-Fitr celebration.