The last time Russian forces tried to topple an internationally recognized government it was in a country far from Eastern Europe and on a far smaller scale than today’s war in Ukraine. That includes the use of mercenaries, which U.S. officials say President Vladimir Putin is resorting to as regular Russian forces falter, the death toll among Russian troops rises, and atrocities take center stage. In Libya, the Wagner fighters made a difference. Months later, mines and booby-traps emplaced by Wagner fighters would kill dozens more. And while the invasion failed to overthrow Libyan government, its aftermath left Russian military forces firmly entrenched in airbases and oil facilities in southern and eastern Libya.

Source: Libya Today April 18, 2022 22:05 UTC