Northern Ethiopia Escalation: EU Expresses Grave Concern Over Airport Seizures and Airstrikes
ADDIS ABABA — The European Union has issued an official statement expressing deep concern over the rapidly deteriorating security situation across Northern Ethiopia, warning of its severe impact on local civilian populations.
The official EU spokesperson highlighted reports of widespread military activity across multiple localities, emphasizing serious alarm over the takeover of the Mekelle, Axum, and Shire airports in Tigray by Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) forces. The statement also noted that the EU has been closely tracking consecutive drone strikes conducted by the Ethiopian National Defence Force (ENDF) across the region in recent weeks.
Urging all parties to immediately cease military operations, the EU stressed that it is not too late to decisively recommit to the Permanent Cessation of Hostilities Agreement. The European Union reiterated that political differences must be resolved through diplomatic dialogue rather than armed confrontation.
The statement underscored that adherence to International Humanitarian Law remains non-negotiable. The EU strongly condemned recent attacks targeting humanitarian convoys and any administrative denial of aid access, calling for the complete protection of civilians and full respect for the independence and impartiality of relief operations. Reaffirming its diplomatic posture, the EU declared its continued commitment to supporting de-escalation initiatives, African Union-led mediation efforts, and constructive political dialogue to restore regional stability.
