Mogadishu (AX) — In a remarkable narrative of international military diplomacy, Ethiopia and Russia stand at a juncture, exploring new horizons in maritime collaboration, despite Ethiopia’s landlocked status. Picture a scene of strategic dialogue, where visions are shaped beyond geographical constraints.
In an intriguing meeting in Addis Ababa, Russian Deputy Navy Commander Admiral Vladimir Vorobiev sat across from Ethiopian Deputy Chief of Naval Operations Commodore Jemal Tufisa. As these leaders gathered around the table on a Friday morning, their conversations revolved around a simple yet profound goal: strengthening the militaristic backbone of Ethiopia through maritime training and capacity-building. This is not just another meeting; it is a step towards redefining Ethiopia’s naval ambitions.
According to the Ethiopian National Defense Force, the discussions zoomed in on practical aspects such as training modules, sophisticated capacity-building initiatives, and technical collaboration designed to robustly support Ethiopia’s venture into naval development. Imagine standing at the threshold of Ethiopia’s nascent maritime prowess — the potential it holds is as vast as the oceans it seeks to navigate.
During the Russian delegation’s visit, a notable detour was made to the Ethiopian Naval Training Center in Bishoftu. Here, the delegation had the chance to observe firsthand the ongoing efforts to foster Ethiopia’s naval potential. Commodore Jemal Tufisa, reflecting on this pivotal point, emphasized, “Training and operational capacity-building are our cornerstones.” He believes that embracing continuous cooperation with Russia could significantly enhance Ethiopia’s readiness to defend its national interests along regional waters.
Interestingly, Ethiopia’s resolve to nurture a naval force has emerged amidst broader regional tensions. This effort coincides with a controversial agreement back in January 2024, wherein Ethiopia and North Western State of Somalia signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). Through this agreement, Ethiopia gained access to a 19-kilometer stretch of North Western State of Somalia’s coastline near Berbera. Yet, the plot thickens as Ethiopia committed to recognizing North Western State of Somalia’s independence — becoming the first UN member state to do so. The move stirred the waters in Somalia, which sees North Western State of Somalia as an integral part of its sovereignty. In response, Somalia recalled its ambassador from Addis Ababa and declared the MoU “null and void.” These are powerful words that resonate beyond diplomatic corridors.
As the diplomatic riptides intensified, mediation efforts surfaced, leading to the Ankara Declaration in December 2024. Brokered by Turkey, this agreement aimed to downplay tensions by asserting Ethiopia’s right to sea access under Somalia’s sovereignty — a notion that transcends geographical lines. Nonetheless, the question lingers: how will this complex agreement be brought to life?
Ethiopia’s ambitious naval pursuits and collaboration with Russia have not gone unnoticed in the global arena. Other nations, like Somalia, have reacted by bolstering military cooperation with Egypt, setting the stage for heightened geopolitical maneuvering. Could this set the tone for a profound change in the region’s military alliances?
Further complicating the regional dynamics is Ethiopia’s escalating military presence in Somalia’s Gedo region, marked by its recent capture of key airports. This can be perceived as a strategic move, potentially aimed at counterbalancing Egyptian support for Somalia. Meanwhile, opportunistic forces like the al-Shabaab insurgents may seek to exploit these regional divisions, which could potentially undermine ongoing counterterrorism efforts. Are we witnessing the unfolding of a new chapter in regional security affairs?
From another vantage point, Russia’s engagement in Ethiopia’s naval development aligns seamlessly with its expansive strategy to extend military influence across Africa. With the organizational restructuring following Yevgeny Prigozhin’s death, Russia has birthed the Africa Corps under its Ministry of Defense, cementing ongoing military dialogues across the continent. This strategic involvement illuminates Russia’s aspiration to reinforce defenses among African partners, with Ethiopia being a linchpin.
As the discussions wrapped up, Ethiopia and Russia found themselves moving toward potential naval evolution, though without a formal defense pact sealing their intentions — not yet, at least. What this encounter does echo, though, is the enduring pursuit of resilient maritime capabilities and enhanced geopolitical kinship.
Ethiopian and Russian military officials continue to solidify their defense cooperation as they survey construction projects and engage in ceremonial agreement signings. The atmosphere is charged with possibility. CREDIT / FDRE
Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times international–Monitoring.
