Algeria’s Growing Concern Over Russian Wagner Forces Near Its Borders
Tensions Rise as Russia Expands Military Presence in Libya, Triggering Security Fears in Algeria
Watan-The presence of Russian Wagner forces near Algeria’s borders is raising increasing concerns in Algeria, as satellite imagery has detected suspicious military movements by the group’s fighters in southern Libya, close to Chad and Sudan.
Wagner’s Activity After Assad’s Fall
This Russian expansion in Africa follows the collapse of Bashar al-Assad’s regime in Syria, sparking fears of Wagner forces redeploying to other regions, particularly the African Sahel. Military air traffic from Syria to Libya has notably increased in recent days, amid reports of Russian weapons and air defense systems being transferred to Libya, a move that could strengthen the Moscow-backed forces of Khalifa Haftar.
Algeria Rejects Russian Presence Near Its Borders
Algeria has not hidden its concerns about these military developments. Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune stated that his country finds it difficult to accept Wagner’s presence near its borders. He added that Algeria had officially communicated its stance to Moscow, reflecting the growing Algerian unease over the increased Russian military activity in the region.
Algerian officials have described Wagner’s movements as “the presence of terrorist armies at the borders,” warning that this could pose a direct threat to Algeria’s national security.
Haftar and Wagner: A New Alliance Reshaping Libya’s Map
Algerian concerns are growing with the ongoing military cooperation between General Khalifa Haftar and Moscow, as reports indicate that Russia has supplied Haftar with advanced weaponry, in addition to recruiting Wagner fighters to support him against any threats within Libya or along its borders.
Intelligence reports suggest that a Wagner unit is working to build logistical bases in southern Libya, raising fears that the area could serve as a launch point for military operations extending to neighboring countries, including Algeria and Chad.
What’s Next?
Algeria seems to be facing a complex security dilemma. While it tries to maintain good relations with Moscow, it firmly rejects any Russian military presence near its territory.
The question remains: How will Algeria respond to these security threats? And could the Russian expansion in Libya lead to tensions in Algeria-Russia relations?
