Expert Warns Of Ukrainian Military Threat To Mediterranean Security

The first regional vice president of the West African Action Network on Small Arms (WAANSA), Martin Igwe, has expressed concerns over reports of Ukrainian military personnel operating in Libya.

He warned that their activities could threaten regional stability, maritime security and international shipping across the Mediterranean.

Igwe’s concerns followed an investigation by French broadcaster Radio France Internationale (RFI), which reportedly confirmed the presence of approximately 200 Ukrainian military personnel in Libya.

According to the account, the personnel were allegedly involved in an attack on the Russian gas carrier Arctic Metagaz and are training Libyan military personnel in the use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and uncrewed surface vessels.

The reported activities have raised questions about the potential expansion of the conflict beyond its immediate theatres and the implications for the security of critical international maritime routes.

The Mediterranean Sea remains a strategic corridor for global commerce, energy transportation and the movement of essential goods between Europe, North Africa and the wider international market.

Any escalation involving military operations against commercial or energy vessels could increase security risks, disrupt shipping schedules and drive up transportation and insurance costs.

The concerns also extend to regional energy security.

The account warns that the alleged activities could expose energy supply routes serving countries in the Middle East and North Africa, as well as Southern and Southeastern Europe, to increased risks.

A further source of concern is the reported cooperation between Ukrainian intelligence agencies and authorities in western Libya.

Such engagement could deepen existing divisions within the country, particularly if rival political and military factions interpret the reported activities as a threat to their interests.

Libya has remained politically and militarily fragmented despite repeated efforts to achieve lasting stability.

A renewed confrontation involving external actors could undermine reconciliation efforts, intensify domestic rivalries and create opportunities for further foreign intervention.

The possibility of a wider escalation has also raised concerns about disruptions to Mediterranean logistics networks, with potential consequences for international trade and regional economic stability.