U.S. military says Russia flew 14 MiG 29s and Su-24s to Libya
Source: Reuters
WORLD NEWS MAY 27, 2020 / 1:04 PM / UPDATED 5 HOURS AGO
U.S. military says Russia flew 14 MiG 29s and Su-24s to Libya
TUNIS (Reuters) - Russian military personnel flew MiG 29 and SU-24 fighter planes to a Libyan airbase escorted by other Russian fighter jets, the U.S. military said on Wednesday, detailing a deployment of air power that could have a big impact on Libyas war.
Moscow backs the eastern-based Libyan National Army (LNA) of Khalifa Haftar in its conflict against the Government of National Accord (GNA), which is recognised by the United Nations and backed by Turkey. Libya is subject to a U.N. arms embargo.
LNA spokesman Ahmed Mismari denied that new jets had arrived, calling it media rumours and lies. Last week he said the LNA had repaired four old Libyan jets for use and announced the start of a major new air campaign.
A Russian member of parliament earlier on Wednesday said Russia had not sent any military personnel to Libya and the upper house of parliament had received no request to approve such a dispatch.
On Tuesday, the U.S. militarys Africa Command said it assessed that Russia had flown fighter jets to Libya via Syria to support Russian mercenaries fighting alongside the LNA.
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https://www.reuters.com/article/us-libya-security-russia-usa/u-s-military-says-russia-flew-14-mig-29s-and-su-24s-to-libya-idUSKBN2332QC