Libya escalation puts Athens on high diplomatic alert

Athens on Friday remained on increased diplomatic alert following recent developments in Libya where Turkey appears to be consolidating its presence and taking on a kingmaker role after halting Khalifa Haftar's forces which are waging a battle in the west of the country against the Tripoli-based government.

Turkey's moves have in turn sparked a strong reaction from Russia, which has strengthened its presence in the eastern coastal region of Cyrenaica.

In Athens, senior government officials are reportedly skeptical about a view being aired within NATO circles that Turkey's increased presence in Libya could serve to offset Russia's influence in the region.

The latest developments were discussed in a phone call late Thursday between Greek Foreign Minister Nikos Dendias and Libya's Parliament speaker in the east, Aguila Saleh. 

According to diplomatic...