The commander of the “Irini” naval operation, Italian Admiral Stefano Turchetto, said that Russia’s presence in the Mediterranean region is increasing.
Turchetto explained that Moscow is working to obtain a new maritime location in the Mediterranean basin, by consolidating relations with eastern Libya.
Turchetto added that Operation “Irini” is the main naval military pillar of the European Union’s commitment to the southern flank of Europe, in an implicit reference to Libya.
Turchetto added that the recent seizure of two weapons shipments, which were on their way to Libya, shows that this operation is a success for the common defense and security policy and is capable of creating deterrent effects.
Turchetto added that the inspection and seizure process is in line with the arms embargo imposed by the United Nations on Libya, and is part of the 2023 maritime security strategy developed by the European Union.
