The Federal Government of Somalia has accused Ethiopia of importing weapons to Jubaland as the conflict between the Somali government and the autonomous Jubaland escalates.

According to the Somali government, two Ethiopian planes have entered Kismayo, the capital of Jubaland, which has been embroiled in political and military conflict for the past few weeks. The planes were allegedly loaded with illegal weapons.

The statement released by the Somali government also mentioned that the planes transported former Jubaland Vice President, Mohamud Sayid Aden, and his entourage to Ethiopia.

The actions of the Ethiopian government are seen as part of a strategy to destabilize the region and support armed groups aiming to control the Gedo region.

The government of Somalia, in its statement, indicated that Ethiopia’s recent activities in the territory violate international law and pose a threat to Somalia’s sovereignty and stability.

This is not the first time the Somali government has accused Ethiopia of such actions. Somalia has repeatedly accused Ethiopia of providing weapons and training to militants in the Puntland, Galmudug, and Hirshabele regions.

A statement released by Somalia’s Ministry of Information on Sunday accused Ethiopia of “territorial expansion” due to its actions over the past year, in addition to importing weapons.

The government of Somalia stated in its release that the actions being facilitated by Ethiopia not only violate international norms but also put diplomatic efforts to peacefully resolve the dispute between the two countries meaningless.

It is worth noting that East African leaders, including Kenyan President William Ruto, are working to solve the year-long conflict between Ethiopia and Somalia.

In the statement accusing Ethiopia, the Somali government issued a stern warning that if Ethiopia continues to commit violations, Somalia will defend its territorial integrity and take action against individuals who collaborate with the Ethiopian government against the Somali government and the independence of Somalia.

Relations between Ethiopia and Somalia soured after Ethiopia signed a coastal use agreement with Somaliland, which Somalia claims as part of its territory, at the end of December last year. In response, Ethiopia accused Somalia of granting Somaliland citizenship, which they see as a violation of its sovereignty.

Somalia is now accusing Ethiopia of supplying weapons to the autonomous Jubaland government, which severed ties with the federal government of Somalia during the election process.

In addition to claiming Ethiopia is interfering in its internal affairs, Somalia also accused Ethiopia of instigating conflict between tribes in an area known as Gedo in Jubaland a few days ago. The government of Ethiopia has not yet responded to the allegations made by Somali authorities.