Somalia accuses Ethiopia of smuggling arms to Jubaland amid rising tensions

The Somali government has accused Ethiopia of smuggling firearms into Jubaland, escalating tensions between Mogadishu and the southern federal state. Somalia claims two Ethiopian planes recently landed in Kismayo, Jubaland’s port city, carrying illegal arms.

Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s administration views the alleged arms transfers as part of Ethiopia’s broader effort to destabilize Somalia, citing support for armed groups and attempts to control the Gedo region. Somalia also accused Ethiopia of flying Jubaland Deputy President Mahmud Seiyd Aden to Ethiopia, an act Mogadishu sees as undermining its authority.

“These violations of Somalia’s sovereignty will not go unanswered,” Somalia declared in a statement, vowing to defend its territorial integrity and take measures against those collaborating with Ethiopia.

The allegations come amid heightened tensions between Mogadishu and Jubaland. Recently, both governments issued arrest warrants for each other’s leaders—Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Jubaland President Ahmed Madobe, re-elected for a third term.

Somalia’s grievances extend beyond Jubaland. It has repeatedly criticized Ethiopia’s territorial ambitions, particularly after Ethiopia signed a memorandum of understanding with Somaliland in January 2024. The deal would grant Ethiopia 20 kilometers of coastal land on a 50-year lease—sparking outrage in Mogadishu, which considers Somaliland an integral part of Somalia.

While Ethiopia has expressed willingness to engage in Kenya-mediated talks, Mogadishu demands the annulment of the Somaliland agreement before dialogue can proceed.

Neither Ethiopia nor Jubaland has responded to the latest accusations, leaving the region’s future uncertain as geopolitical rivalries—including Egypt and Eritrea’s support for Somalia—add complexity to the growing conflict.