Is US Military Cooperation with Ethiopia Driven by Anger over Egypt-China Rapprochement?
A US defense agreement with Ethiopia was signed on Aug. 21 during an Ethiopian military delegation's visit to Washington, described as a strategic framework for military and security cooperation. The timing coincided with Chinese President Xi Jinping's visit to Cairo, raising questions about US motivations. Analysts cited in the report suggest Washington aims to rebuild ties with Ethiopia, enhance Red Sea security, and counter Chinese and Russian influence, while some experts caution the agreement lacks binding treaties and direct funding.
Why it matters: This development reflects the theme of great-power competition in Africa, as the US seeks to counter Chinese influence in the Horn of Africa.