Ethiopia to Keep Troops in Somalia for AU Mission Despite Sea Access Dispute

ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia — Ethiopia has expressed its intent to keep its military forces in its neighboring Somalia as part of the upcoming new African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM).

However, this commitment faces a significant hurdle as Somalia insists on the removal of Ethiopian troops unless Ethiopia nullifies its contentious agreement with Somaliland for sea access in exchange for recognition.

The deal, which aims to give Ethiopia a route to the Red Sea in return for acknowledging Somaliland's sovereignty, has sparked controversy, with Somalia asserting that it infringes on its territorial rights.

Somalia's position has garnered backing from international bodies like the United Nations and the African Union, which advocate for Somalia's territorial integrity.

The insistence from Somalia's government comes at a time when regional dynamics are fraught with tension, highlighting the intricate web of security, diplomacy, and territorial issues in the Horn of Africa.

With the pending decision, the future of Ethiopian military engagement in Somalia under AUSSOM hangs in the balance, potentially affecting regional security and diplomatic ties across East Africa.

The situation underscores the delicate balance of power and alliances in the region, with Ethiopia's strategic interests clashing with Somalia's national integrity concerns. As the deadline approaches for a resolution, the implications of this decision could reshape security dynamics and diplomatic relations across East Africa.

GAROWE ONLINE