UN Security Council has adopted a resolution calling for a “lasting ceasefire” in war-torn Libya, where a fragile truce has been in place since January. The text, drafted by Britain, was approved by 14 votes out of 15, with Russia abstaining. The resolution affirmed the need for a lasting ceasefire in Libya at the earliest opportunity, without pre-conditions. It also expressed concern over the growing involvement of mercenaries in Libya.

Libya, Africa’s most oil-rich nation, has been mired in chaos since the 2011 NATO-backed uprising that toppled and killed longtime leader Moamer Kadhafi.

Since April 2019, the UN-recognized Government of National Accord has fought back against an offensive by military commander Khalifa Haftar, who is supported by Russia, Egypt and the United Arab Emirates.

A ceasefire was agreed on January 12, but there are still near-daily clashes near Tripoli and arms continue to flow into the country.