TPLF withdraws from Tigray capital Mekelle — SkimNews
Get the Geopolitics newsletter
Daily geopolitics — wars, elections, sanctions, the diplomatic moves that move markets. Free.
- TPLF withdrew from Mekelle in a strategic move to avoid civilian harm, with its chairman stating the group would continue operations from another location
- Mekelle residents confirmed pro-government forces now control the city and reported mobile services had been restored after the TPLF pullout
- Duke Burbridge, an American doctor in Tigray, observed relative calm returning post-withdrawal except for brief gunfire and looting linked to armed criminal groups
- Ethiopia has accused Egypt, Eritrea, and Sudan of supporting the Tigray rebels — allegations those countries deny — leading to diplomatic expulsions
- US Department of State called for restraint and dialogue ahead of a regional summit in Egypt involving leaders from Ethiopia’s neighboring countries
- United Nations warned that deteriorating security in northern Ethiopia is disrupting humanitarian access and urged all sides to ensure safe aid delivery
Why it matters: The withdrawal shifts the conflict from urban to likely guerrilla warfare, increasing risks for civilians and aid operations. With 600,000 estimated dead in the prior war and fresh alliances forming, renewed escalation could destabilize the Horn of Africa despite diplomatic efforts.
Ask SkimNews
