Ukraine Establishes Military Presence in Western Libya, Conducts Strikes Against Russian-Linked Vessels
Ukraine has reportedly established a military presence in western Libya and used it to conduct attacks against Russian-linked vessels in the Mediterranean. According to RFI on April 3, citing two Libyan sources familiar with the matter, more than 200 Ukrainian officers and military experts are currently deployed in Libya with the approval of the Tripoli-based government led by Abdelhamid Dbeibah.
The report states that Ukrainian personnel are operating across three locations and have already carried out at least two maritime drone strikes targeting vessels associated with Russia. The deployment followed an agreement signed in October 2025 at the initiative of Ukraine‘s military attaché in Algeria, General Andrii Baiuk, according to RFI.
Libyan Infrastructure Supports Drone Operations
A second site near Mellitah—close to a major oil and gas complex—has reportedly been developed into a fully equipped launch point for both aerial and naval drones. The infrastructure at this location was constructed in late 2025 and includes access to the sea, runways, and communication systems. This site is used as a launch point for naval drones like the Magura V5, which were used to strike Russian vessels.
Coordination with Libyan Forces
A third site near Tripoli is used for coordination between Ukrainian personnel and units of the western Libyan army, including the 111th Brigade. Under the terms of the deal, Ukraine provides training to Libyan forces, particularly in drone operations, with longer-term provisions reportedly including arms cooperation and potential investment in Libya‘s energy sector.
Maritime Strikes Against Russian Vessels
According to RFI, Ukrainian forces have already used this presence to conduct maritime strikes. On March 4, a Russian LNG carrier, Arctic Metagaz, was hit by a naval drone while en route to Port Said. The vessel sustained damage to its engine room, which led to flooding and loss of propulsion.
The attack was reportedly carried out using a Magura V5 naval drone launched from the Libyan coast near Mellitah. A previous incident on December 19, 2025, involved a strike on the tanker Qendil in the Mediterranean, approximately 250 kilometers off the Libyan coast, with the drone reportedly launched from Misrata.
The Libyan government has not publicly commented on the reported Ukrainian presence, while Ukrainian authorities did not respond to RFI’s request for comment.
Original Article: Libya Reportedly Allows Ukraine Use Its Territory to Strike Russia’s Shadow Fleet — UNITED24 Media — United24Media