The Threat of Russia’s Ghost Fleet to Libya and European Security
Russia’s ghost fleet is reportedly supplying military equipment to Libyan warlord Khalifa Haftar, utilizing concealed ships to evade sanctions. The investigation into the Barbaros ship revealed its manipulation of tracking systems, which enabled successful cargo delivery. Despite serious allegations against Haftar, Western diplomatic engagement persists, amidst rising concerns about Russian influence in Libya and its implications for European security.
Recent revelations indicate that the Kremlin is utilizing vessels from a so-called “ghost fleet” to supply military equipment to Libyan warlord Khalifa Haftar. This fleet consists of aging commercial ships with concealed ownership, enabling Russia to evade sanctions while transporting goods such as military equipment. The case of the Cameroonian-flagged cargo ship, the Barbaros, exemplifies this trend, as it was reported to be carrying military-related trucks manufactured by a sanctioned Russian company.
During its journey toward a Libyan port controlled by Haftar, the Barbaros raised concerns among observers when it allegedly manipulated its Automatic Identification System (AIS) to conceal its location. An internal report by Interpol noted that the vessel had undergone frequent changes in registration and name, marking it as suspicious. The ship’s eventual inspection by Operation Irini revealed a cargo of 115 Russian-made trucks, which, although military-style, were not modified for military use, thereby allowing the vessel to proceed.
For nearly a decade, Russia has been closely aligned with Haftar, providing him with arms, funding, and personnel, fostering a significant partnership. Past reports identified Haftar’s forces as responsible for serious human rights violations. Despite these alarming associations, Western officials, including U.S. diplomats, have continued to interact with him, culminating in meetings even after the Barbaros deliveries.
European officials have expressed increasing concern over Russia’s growing influence in Libya, advocating for stronger engagement with institutions in the eastern region to counteract Russian expansion. Anas El Gomati, director of the Sadeq Institute, emphasized that Russia’s involvement in Libya is primarily about exerting influence over Europe, as the region acts as a critical hub for migrant traffic and naval operations.
In addition, European observations indicate a marked rise in Russian flights and military shipments to Libya throughout 2024, suggesting a solidifying Russian presence. The transition from the Wagner Group to the Africa Corps marks a shift in operational control in Libya. This increased Russian involvement underscores the strategic importance of Libya as a logistical entry point into Africa and its potential consequences for European security.
The ongoing arms shipments and military support from Russia not only exacerbate the turmoil in Libya but also enable Moscow to extend its influence across the broader region. Concurrently, while Russian actions in Libya draw attention, it is important to note that other nations, including Turkey, have employed similar strategies in the past, highlighting a complex dynamic in the arms trade and foreign intervention in the region.
The utilization of a ghost fleet by Russia to support Khalifa Haftar in Libya raises serious concerns regarding international arms embargo violations and the implications for European security. The Barbaros case exemplifies the covert methods employed to transport military supplies, reflecting Russia’s ongoing commitment to expanding its influence in North Africa. The strategic partnership between Russia and Haftar not only destabilizes Libya but poses significant risks to European nations, necessitating a reassessment of current diplomatic engagements and security strategies in response to this escalating threat.
Original Source: www.icij.org
