U.S. Rejects Ethiopia-Somaliland MoU Amid Ongoing Diplomatic Dispute with Somalia











The United States has firmly stated that it does not recognize the memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed between Ethiopia and Somaliland, calling for a diplomatic resolution to the ongoing tensions between Somalia and Ethiopia. The MoU, which grants Ethiopia access to Somaliland’s Red Sea coastline, has fueled a diplomatic rift with Somalia, which views the deal as an infringement on its sovereignty.

In an exclusive interview, U.S. Ambassador to Somalia Richard Riley reaffirmed Washington’s position, emphasizing that the U.S. is working to mediate the situation diplomatically. “We are very much aware and working collaboratively to make sure there is a diplomatic resolution of this current situation,” Riley said during an interview at the U.S. Embassy in Mogadishu. “It is an unfortunate situation, very disruptive, and started with this MoU between Somaliland and Ethiopia. Of course, we do not recognize it, and we are trying to solve it through diplomatic channels.”

U.S. Calls for Peaceful Resolution

The dispute between Ethiopia and Somalia erupted earlier this year when Ethiopia signed the MoU with Somaliland, a self-declared independent region that Somalia continues to claim as part of its territory. Under the agreement, Ethiopia would gain access to a significant portion of Somaliland’s Red Sea coastline for leasing, which has raised alarm in Mogadishu.

Somalia considers any agreements made by Somaliland without its consent as a violation of its national sovereignty. Ethiopian forces have long been present in Somalia as part of the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS), contributing to regional security, but the diplomatic fallout from this MoU has placed strains on the relationship between the two countries.

Ambassador Riley underscored the urgency of resolving the issue through diplomatic efforts, stressing that the U.S. and the international community are working non-stop to prevent further escalation. “No one can accept there would be any kind of conflict, much less war,” Riley said. “This is absolutely needed, and it is needed soon.”

Ethiopia-Somalia Tensions Remain High

Turkey, a key ally of Somalia, has attempted to mediate the dispute between Somalia and Ethiopia, but so far, talks have failed to yield a breakthrough. Both nations are set to meet for a third round of talks later this month, with hopes that further negotiations will prevent the situation from deteriorating into armed conflict.

“The core issue remains Ethiopia’s refusal to annul the MoU with Somaliland, which is Somalia’s position,” said Abdi Aynte, a former Somali minister involved in previous negotiations. Analysts warn that unless Ethiopia reconsiders its stance, the prospect of a lasting agreement remains slim.

The potential for conflict remains a significant concern, particularly with Ethiopian troops already stationed within Somalia under ATMIS. Somali Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre recently stated that all Ethiopian forces should withdraw from Somalia once the ATMIS mandate expires at the end of 2024, further complicating the situation.

U.S. Role in Regional Security and Stability

Ambassador Riley highlighted the U.S.’s commitment to supporting Somalia’s sovereignty and security, noting that the U.S. remains Somalia’s largest donor and a key security partner. The U.S. has provided extensive military aid, debt forgiveness, and financial support to help Somalia combat terrorism and stabilize the nation.

“We absolutely have always strongly supported the current ATMIS force here,” Riley said, commending the troop-contributing countries, including Ethiopia, for their bravery in combating terrorist groups like al-Shabaab. However, he emphasized that the U.S. would continue to support any peacekeeping mission aimed at promoting long-term stability and security in Somalia, including the forthcoming African Union Support Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM).

Riley stressed two immediate priorities for the U.S. in Somalia: ensuring that Somali armed forces have the resources needed to fight extremist groups and promoting economic development. “Somalia needs both physical and economic security,” he noted, adding that international investments and market connectivity are crucial for the country’s future.

U.S. Push for a Diplomatic Solution

As the situation unfolds, the U.S. continues to back peaceful negotiations, while remaining clear in its rejection of any agreements between Ethiopia and Somaliland that bypass Somalia’s sovereignty. The upcoming rounds of talks, facilitated by Turkey, will be critical in determining whether diplomacy can resolve the tensions or if the situation will escalate further.

With Ethiopia’s strategic interests in the Red Sea and Somalia’s unwavering position on its territorial integrity, the dispute has become a pivotal issue in East African politics. The U.S. aims to ensure that the region remains stable and that the resolution of the MoU dispute aligns with Somalia’s sovereignty and broader peace efforts.