US urges compromise in Tigray as TPLF demands preconditions for AU-led talks
The United States has expressed support for African Union High Representative Olusegun Obasanjo's efforts to engage Ethiopian and Tigrayan leaders following his visit to Mekelle. US Ambassador to Ethiopia Ervin Massinga and Chargé d’Affaires of the US Mission to the African Union Walter Parrs welcomed Obasanjo’s visit, emphasizing his vital role under the AU mandate amid concerns of renewed conflict. They highlighted the need for compromise to address humanitarian needs and ensure the safe return of displaced populations. This statement followed a response from the Tigray People’s Liberation Front TPLF, which indicated that discussions in Mekelle yielded no new proposals from Addis Ababa. The TPLF outlined prerequisites for future negotiations, including an end to military encirclement, de-escalation of regional security measures, complete lifting of the economic siege on Tigray, restoration of contested territories, safe return of internally displaced persons, and full reinstatement of the TPLF’s legal and political status. The TPLF stated its readiness for a "credible, time-bound dialogue supported by major international partners" but rejected repeated talks without concrete implementation. These diplomatic efforts occur amidst reports of recent military engagements and drone strikes in western Tigray.
