JidbaaleSources from Mogadishu indicate that the Hassan Sheikh Mohamud administration is adopting a more extreme position against Ethiopia and is potentially asserting claims to Ethiopian land in Ogaden as part of Somalia.
However, the U.S. is allegedly conveying hope for a diplomatic resolution to the issue. The VOA Amharic report indicates that the United States is collaborating with undisclosed partners in that regard.
Richard Riley, U.S. Ambassador to Somalia, said, “In the present circumstances, his country is collaborating with others to pursue a diplomatic resolution.”
The Ambassador said that the U.S. and its allies are engaging with the federal government of Somalia and the administration in Addis Ababa.
The Ambassador referenced the discussions sponsored by Turkey between Ethiopia and Somalia. “The next one will be started in a few days, ” he added.
When asked if the circumstances may precipitate conflict between Ethiopia and Somalia, the ambassador responded with a definitive “no.” He said, “Moreover, no one welcomes the prospect of any conflict arising.” The world community is diligently striving to fix the situation. The objective of the United States is to find a solution for the situation between Ethiopia and Somalia. ”
From the VOA Amharic report, it appears that the United States wants the settlement of the conflict between the two nations fast. “The absolutely necessary issue is this. It should happen soon and now,” Ambassador Richard H. Riley is quoted as saying.
Last month, Somalia inked a military contract with Egypt, which is sending 10,000 soldiers in Somalia. There were allegations in social media this week that Ethiopian military seized certain airports in Somalia, but the Ethiopian government has neither verified or rejected it.
Somalia and Ethiopia share a history of strife and animosity. The current one emerged in January 2024 when Ethiopia and Somaliland signed a pact of agreement.
The plan intended for Ethiopia to have access to 20 kilometers of coastline property for maritime and commercial uses on a fifty year rental basis. In exchange, Ethiopia plans to recognize Somaliland—a breakaway area that operated as a de facto state for over 33 years—as an independent state.
The finalization of the arrangement was supposed to be completed within one month following the MoU agreement. It took longer than that.
“Somaliland” officials last week said the deal is finished, but it has not been made public.
