Moscow, May 26, 2025
A high-level working meeting between Russian and Ethiopian defense officials was held in Moscow, underscoring the growing military and technical partnership between the two nations. Colonel-General Alexander V. Fomin, Deputy Minister of Defense of the Russian Federation, met with Field Marshal Birhanu Jula Gelalcha, Chief of Staff of the Ethiopian Armed Forces, to discuss key areas of bilateral defense collaboration.
Key Attendees and Strategic Discussions
The talks featured prominent representatives from both sides, including:
• Lieutenant General Mikhail V. Babich, State Secretary, Deputy Director of Russia’s Federal Service for Military-Technical Cooperation (FSMTC)
• Andrey G. Punchuk, Deputy Director of the FSMTC
• Sergey F. Ladygin, Deputy Director General of Rosoboronexport JSC, Russia’s state-controlled arms exporter
The discussions focused on:
– Military-technical cooperation, including potential arms deals and technology transfers
– Implementation of existing agreements between Moscow and Addis Ababa
– Expanding defense partnerships in training, counterterrorism, and regional security
– Geopolitical stability in Africa and shared security interests
Strengthening Strategic Ties
Both sides emphasized their commitment to deepening defense relations, with Colonel General Fomin and Field Marshal Gelalcha reaffirming the importance of sustained military dialogue. The meeting highlighted Ethiopia’s role as a key Russian partner in Africa, particularly in light of Moscow’s broader strategy to enhance its influence on the continent.
Russia has been a longstanding supplier of military equipment to Ethiopia, including aircraft, armored vehicles, and small arms. The latest talks suggest potential new contracts, possibly involving advanced air defense systems or counterinsurgency support, given Ethiopia’s ongoing internal security challenges.
Regional and Global Implications
The dialogue also touched upon broader security concerns, including instability in the Horn of Africa and the Red Sea region. Russia’s engagement with Ethiopia aligns with its efforts to expand military-diplomatic ties in Africa, countering Western influence while securing strategic footholds.
A Robust Partnership
The meeting concluded in a “spirit of mutual understanding,” with both delegations expressing optimism about future collaboration. As Russia seeks to bolster its defense exports and geopolitical reach, Ethiopia remains a pivotal ally in Africa, ensuring continued military and technical exchanges in the years ahead.
This high-level engagement signals not only reinforced bilateral ties but also Russia’s enduring strategic interests in a region increasingly shaped by global power competition.
Emebet Asefa ,Correspondent ,Addis Abeba
