Ethiopia receives 12 Russian Su-35 fighter jets

Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has announced that Ethiopia has received 12 Su-35 fighter jets from Russia. These 4++ generation aircraft were delivered one year ahead of the original schedule following an agreement with the Russian government. The Prime Minister expressed gratitude to President Vladimir Putin for expediting the delivery. He stated that this acquisition strengthens the preparedness of the Ethiopian National Defense Force to deter external threats. Additionally, Ethiopia is set to receive S-400 advanced anti-air missile systems from Moscow. This military procurement comes amid rising tensions between Ethiopia and Eritrea. Russia, which maintains military and diplomatic ties with both nations, has expressed readiness to mediate in their ongoing disputes. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov recently indicated Moscow's desire to help both countries resume their interrupted cooperation, particularly concerning maritime access.