CNN: Trump praises Libyan general as his troops march on US backed government in Tripoli
(CNN)President Donald Trump spoke with Libyan general Khalifa Haftar Monday, praising his role in fighting terrorism and securing Libya's vast oil resources even as Haftar's troops continue their offensive against the UN and US-backed government in the Libyan capital of Tripoli.
Trump "recognized Field Marshal Haftar's significant role in fighting terrorism and securing Libya's oil resources, and the two discussed a shared vision for Libya's transition to a stable, democratic political system," the White House said Friday in its official readout of the call.
The statement made no mention of Haftar's offensive on Tripoli, and Trump's praise for the rogue Libyan general signals a departure from previous administration statements condemning Haftar's march on the capital.
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WNU Editor: It looks like the French are also working behind the backs of the U.N. backed government in Libya .... Libya’s UN-backed govt accuses France of supporting Haftar, ends cooperation (France 24). More here .... Libya's Interior Minister announces halt of security cooperation with France (Libya Observer).
More News On The Libyan War
White House says Trump spoke to Libyan commander Haftar on Monday -- Reuters
Trump speaks to rebel Libyan general attacking Tripoli -- The Hill
Libya crisis: Trump speaks to insurgent General Haftar -- BBC
Trump Discussed ‘Shared Vision’ With Libyan Militia Leader Challenging Tripoli Government -- The Wall Street Journal
Mortar bombs land on Tripoli suburb as two-week battle rages on -- Reuters
Libya death toll rises to 205 as Tripoli fighting continues: WHO -- Al Jazeera
Libya's UN-backed government suspends cooperation with France, accuses it of backing rebel forces -- Euronews/Reuters
Tripoli suburb hit by mortars as the West divided on Libya truce -- Al Jazeera
U.S., Russia say cannot support a U.N. call for Libya truce: diplomats -- Reuters
France rejects Libya's 'unfounded' claim it supports militia leader Khalifa Haftar -- DW
Libya’s Tripoli-based government seeks Algerian support -- Middle East Monitor
The Fight for Libya: What to Know -- Council on Foreign Relations
