Russia delivers Su-35 fighter jets to Ethiopia amid Eritrea tensions

Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has announced the receipt of 12 Russian Su-35 multirole fighter jets, a delivery reportedly completed a year ahead of schedule. During a visit to Moscow for the Russia-Africa Summit, Ahmed also revealed plans to acquire four batteries of the advanced S-400 air defense system to bolster Ethiopia’s national security.

The military expansion occurs as diplomatic relations between Ethiopia and Eritrea remain strained. While Moscow is strengthening Ethiopia’s air capabilities, Russian President Vladimir Putin has also engaged with Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki to discuss economic cooperation. Russia has positioned itself as a potential mediator between the two neighbors, despite the contradiction of supplying advanced weaponry to one while courting the other.