First response from the Ethiopian government after Tigray’s Defense Forces (TDF) takeover of Tigray. In Addis Ababa, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and his government are minimizing losses. According to him, his troops left Tigray of their own free will and to look at new priorities.
as reported from Addis Ababa,Noé Rochet-Bodin
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the army staff refuse to talk about a military defeat. In response to a question about a possible defeat for Ethiopian soldiers on the battlefield, an Ethiopian army spokesman called the statement ridiculous.
No, according to him, the federal army has not known of defeat. She withdrew from Tigray because she chose to, because Mekele, the provincial capital, is no longer of strategic importance and, finally, because Tigray’s forces are no longer a threat.
Significant military losses
While many observers report significant military losses and prisoners of war, the spokesman brushed off these statements. The military has other priorities, he said, including defending its borders and protecting them Large renaissance pond.
Asked about the Tigray forces, he downplayed their importance and power, adding that he would never negotiate with those he calls “terrorists.” He also adds that if we had to take back Mekele, we could do so next week. Yesterday, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed went in the same direction. To specify that this military withdrawal would in fact give rise to a second victory for Ethiopia. Victory that he did not specify what kind of.
► See also: Ethiopia: Rebel offensive in Tigray ignores ceasefire declared by Addis Ababa
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