Brian M Downing and the world at war. Timely, thoughtful, and nonpartisan analysis of military matters. @BrianMDowning1.
Brian M Downing Libya is divided between a western region based in Tripoli and an east based in Benghazi. Each side has considerable foreign support – diplomatic and military. Last year the warlord of eastern Libya, Khalifa Haftar, launched an offensive to take the western capital, Tripoli. The capital’s defenders, Read More …
Brian M Downing The Arab Spring was so promising back in 2011. In Libya, Qaddafi was overthrown and killed by a coalition of popular militias. People power in the Maghreb. A representative government was sure to follow, once all those militias disbanded and their leaders formed a transitional government. Didn’t Read More …
Brian M Downing Russia has made important gains in the Muslim world. It has built up its military position in Syria, adding an airfield at Latakia and showing its willingness to back an ally with exceptional force. Iran is more solidly in Moscow’s camp than ever. And longtime enemy Turkey has Read More …