A hole in the hull of the “Arctic Metagaz”: Russia accuses Ukraine of attacking the ship in the Mediterranean.Image: Turkish Coast Guard
According to research by French journalists, Ukrainian military personnel are said to be active in Libya and have been involved in attacks against Russian targets. There are no official confirmations.
April 5, 2026, 8:18 p.mApril 5, 2026, 8:26 p.m
Ukraine maintains a military presence in Libya, according to an investigation by French broadcaster RFI. According to the report, there are said to be more than 200 Ukrainian officers and specialists in the country. They are stationed at two locations, among others – in the city of Misrata and in the port city of Ezzawiya near Tripoli.
In Misrata, Ukrainian forces will operate together with international actors, while the second location will be specially equipped for the use of air and sea drones. The facility in Ezzawiya has direct access to the sea and has been expanded in recent months.
Training and possible collaborations
According to the information, the presence is based on an agreement between Ukraine and the internationally recognized government in Tripoli. Ukrainian specialists would therefore train Libyan armed forces, especially in dealing with drones.
In the long term, according to the report, arms deliveries and economic cooperation, for example in the oil sector, could also be part of the agreement. Neither the Ukrainian government nor the Libyan authorities have yet commented on the allegations.
Focus on attack on Russian tanker
In connection with the research, an attack on the Russian gas tanker “Arctic Metagaz” at the beginning of March is also mentioned. Moscow had accused Ukraine and Great Britain of being behind the attack.
According to the sources cited, the ship was hit by an unmanned maritime drone. The drone damaged the engine room, which made the ship unable to maneuver. There were reportedly large quantities of liquefied natural gas on board.
The crew was evacuated and the damaged ship then drifted in the Mediterranean. An attempt to tow the car later failed.
Ukraine has neither confirmed nor denied involvement in the attack. Observers see possible activities in Libya as an indication that the conflict between Russia and Ukraine is increasingly expanding beyond the Black Sea region.
Power struggle in Libya as a geopolitical background
Libya has been politically divided since the fall of Muammar Gaddafi. In the east of the country, military general Khalifa Haftar controls large areas with his Libyan National Army. He has been supported by Russia for years, including through military advisors and mercenary groups.
In the west, the internationally recognized government is based in Tripoli under Prime Minister Abdelhamid Dbeiba. This is in conflict with Haftar and his allies. Observers assume that the alleged cooperation with Ukraine should also be seen against this background: Tripoli is looking for support against Russia’s influence in the east – and is apparently opening the doors to Ukrainian military forces. (mke)