Russia Turns to Ethiopian Airlines for Aircraft Amid Western Sanctions













Addis Ababa | August 3, 2025

As Western sanctions continue to isolate Russia’s aviation sector, Moscow is turning its gaze toward Africa—specifically, Ethiopian Airlines—as a potential partner to sustain its crippled fleet operations.

Blocked from acquiring Airbus and Boeing jets and their spare parts, Russia has struggled to maintain its commercial aviation industry. In response, Russian officials are exploring alternative global partnerships. In late July, Russia’s Trade Commissioner to Ethiopia, Yaroslav Tarasyuk, held talks with the Ethiopian Civil Aviation Authority (ECAA), proposing a wide-ranging cooperation package that includes a wet-lease of aircraft from Ethiopian Airlines.

The discussions also covered the possible supply of aviation communication and surveillance equipment to Russia, and the construction of an aircraft maintenance center in Addis Ababa.

The move follows the implementation of the Ethiopia-Russia Air Services Agreement in 2024, which laid the foundation for expanding bilateral aviation ties.

Ethiopian Airlines: A Strategic Target

Ethiopian Airlines, Africa’s largest and fastest-growing carrier, operates over 120 active aircraft—including Boeing 787s, Airbus A350s, and Boeing 777s—and has over 60 more on order. With aspirations to become “Africa’s Aviation Hub by 2033,” the airline is seen as a vital player in the continent’s aviation future.

A wet-lease arrangement would allow Russian carriers to operate modern Western jets under Ethiopian registration, possibly circumventing some effects of sanctions. However, such an agreement could draw scrutiny from the EU and US, potentially risking access to Western airspace for Ethiopian Airlines.

The ECAA has also recently held talks with North Korean officials, signaling Ethiopia’s broader interest in diversifying its global aviation partnerships amid a shifting geopolitical landscape.

Aging Fleet and Safety Concerns in Russia

Russia’s commercial aviation fleet has been deteriorating due to lack of access to parts and new aircraft. While the country has tried to produce its own aircraft—such as the MC-21—maintenance issues persist. In one tragic example, a 1976 Antonov An-24 crashed on July 24, killing all 48 people aboard.

Aeroflot, Russia’s flag carrier, reportedly purchased several used Boeing 737s last year solely to strip them for parts. In April, Russia relaxed its rules to allow wet-leasing from foreign carriers, paving the way for deals like the one under discussion with Ethiopian Airlines.

Geopolitical Implications

Russia’s engagement with Ethiopia forms part of its broader push into Africa, which also mirrors China’s growing influence on the continent. Bilateral trade between Russia and Ethiopia grew nearly 40% year-on-year in the first 10 months of 2024, underscoring deepening economic ties.

For Moscow, leveraging African partnerships offers a geopolitical lifeline amid global isolation. For Ethiopia, these partnerships could accelerate its vision of becoming a global aviation hub—albeit with significant diplomatic risks.













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