Ahmed Al-Sharksi, a member of the Libyan Political Dialogue Forum (LPDF), has stated that Russia’s support for Saif al-Islam Gaddafi is not military or financial, as some have claimed, but rather political support. This support is reflected in the majority of Russian officials and diplomats’ insistence on the continuous demand to involve supporters of the former regime in the political process and to warn against the consequences of their exclusion.
“Of course, Saif Gaddafi is at the forefront of those targeted by these demands, as he was a candidate to succeed his father and played political roles before the fall of the regime in February 2011,” Al-Sharksi added in statements to “Al-Sharq Al-Awsat” newspaper
Al-Sharksi continued, “The Russians are aware of the Americans’ concerns about Saif’s victory in the presidential race, as he will not tolerate or be a reliable ally with those who contributed to the downfall of his father’s regime.” He pointed out that directing support to him would achieve more than one strategic goal for Moscow, including temporarily annoying Washington and gaining an important future ally if he wins the presidential race.
Al-Sharqsi stated that it is unlikely for Russia to withdraw its support for Saif Gaddafi, who was a prominent contender in the postponed 2021 elections, and use him as leverage to gain advantages in other parts of the world.