
Somalia’s government on Friday accused Ethiopia of sending unauthorized arms shipments to the semiautonomous state of Puntland.
The Somali Foreign Ministry condemned the shipments, stating they violate Somalia’s sovereignty and threaten regional security.
In a statement, the ministry said the arms transfer represents a grave infringement on Somalia’s territorial integrity.
According to the ministry, two trucks carrying weapons from Ethiopia entered Puntland without diplomatic clearance.
The Somali government noted this incident is similar to previous unauthorized arms shipments, including to Galmudug and Baidoa.
Somalia demanded Ethiopia immediately stop these actions, warning of serious consequences for regional stability.
Tensions between the two countries remain high due to Ethiopia’s sea access deal with the breakaway region of Somaliland.
Somalia has rejected the Red Sea port agreement, calling it a violation of its sovereignty and damaging to neighborly relations.
In response, Somalia recalled its ambassador to Ethiopia following the deal’s announcement.
Attempts by Turkey to mediate between the two countries have so far been unsuccessful, despite recent talks in Ankara.