US Congress May Investigate Moves of Trump's Adviser in Libya

The US Congress may launch an investigation into the foreign policy of the Trump administration in Africa, including the initiatives of Masood Puls, a key adviser to President Donald Trump, and the administration's ties with Khalifa Haftar, the leader of the Libyan National Army. According to a report by the Italian website La Verità, the Democratic-controlled Congress may scrutinize Puls' efforts in Africa, particularly in Libya, over the past two years. This could include a possible hearing with Puls.

Puls reportedly drew up a plan to reunify Libya, which involved Haftar becoming prime minister and Abd al-Hamid al-Dabaiba, the current prime minister, stepping down. The plan was part of a broader effort to stabilize Libya, which has been plagued by conflict and instability since the overthrow of Muammar Gaddafi in 2011. The report also suggested that the Trump administration's relationship with Haftar could be subject to review by Congress.

The US Congress has significant powers to investigate and review the Trump administration's policies and appointments, including control over funding and personnel. This could potentially slow down or even block some of the administration's initiatives and agreements, including those related to Libya and Africa more broadly. The report noted that the Congress may also examine US policy on migration, including agreements with African countries to host migrants deported from the US.

The Trump administration has signed agreements with 12 African countries, including Rwanda, Ghana, Eswatini, South Sudan, and Liberia, to host migrants who have been deported from the US. However, the report suggested that Congress may reject these agreements, which could have significant implications for US policy on migration and asylum. The issue is likely to be closely watched by human rights groups and others who have expressed concerns about the Trump administration's policies on migration.

The possible investigation by Congress into Puls' moves in Libya and his ties with Haftar reflects a broader scrutiny of the Trump administration's policies in Africa. The administration has faced criticism for its approach to the continent, including its support for authoritarian leaders and its policies on migration and trade. The investigation, if it proceeds, could shed more light on the administration's policies and decision-making processes.

Haftar has been a key player in Libyan politics in recent years, leading a military campaign against Islamist groups and other opponents of his rule. His relationship with the Trump administration has been seen as significant, with some analysts suggesting that it reflects a broader shift in US policy towards a more authoritarian and militarized approach in Africa. The investigation by Congress could have significant implications for Haftar and his allies.

The issue is also likely to have implications for Libya's fragile political process, which has been marked by ongoing conflict and instability. The country has been divided between rival governments and armed groups, with Haftar's Libyan National Army controlling much of the east and south. The investigation by Congress could add to the uncertainty and complexity of the situation, potentially affecting the prospects for peace and stability in the country.

Key points

• US Congress may investigate Trump's Africa policy, including adviser Masood Puls' moves in Libya and ties with Khalifa Haftar.