Matas Maldeikis, a Lithuanian MP, warns that Russia is attempting to divert NATO’s attention from its imperialist ambitions by focusing solely on the situation in Ukraine. He highlights Lithuania’s strong support for Ukraine and the country’s understanding of the threat posed by Russia. Since the fall of the Soviet Union, Russia, under Vladimir Putin’s leadership, has become increasingly authoritarian with the same objectives as the former communist bloc: disrupt, expand, and influence. Putin is playing geopolitical power games not only in Europe but also in regions like the “Global South” in hopes of creating new rifts between rapidly developing countries and the West, ultimately building a network of Russian client states.
Maldeikis points to Libya as a prime example of Russia’s activities in sub-Saharan Africa. Following the fall of Muammar Gaddafi in 2011, Libya has been in constant turmoil with rival governments and strongmen vying for control of the country’s oil and gas resources. Russia has exploited this instability by supporting General Khalifa Haftar, a powerful militia leader in eastern Libya, in his efforts to establish a Russian-backed client state. Russia has engaged in various activities to bolster Haftar, including discussions to establish a Russian nuclear submarine base in Tobruk. These actions not only pose economic threats to Europe’s energy assets but also military threats as the Mediterranean could become open to Russian forces.
Libya serves as a strategic location for Putin due to its proximity to southern European states like Italy and Spain and its control over important energy resources that can be used to influence European energy and foreign policy. The country is also a gateway for migration into Europe, a phenomenon that would likely increase with further conflict in Libya. Russia has used Libya as a funnel to insert its mercenaries into the heart of Africa, spreading chaos in countries like Sudan and Mali. By influencing key institutions like the National Oil Corporation, Russia aims to establish control over important sectors of Libya’s economy and further expand its influence in Africa.
Maldeikis emphasizes the need for NATO to remain united in the face of growing energy security challenges and to collectively support efforts against Russia’s geopolitical games. He urges NATO to focus on Russia’s activities beyond Ukraine and work towards imposing strong international sanctions to deter Russian aggression. By remaining vigilant and united, NATO can ensure the success of its allies in Ukraine and prevent Russia from further advancing its imperialist plans in other regions. Maldeikis’s insights shed light on the complex web of Russian influence and manipulation in countries like Libya and serve as a call to action for NATO to stand firm against such threats.
