AMN PLUS-October 30, 2026
During his official visit to Moscow, Russia, to attend the 3rd Russia–Africa Summit, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed addressed Ethiopia’s acquisition of the first batch of twelve Su-35 4++-generation fighter jets, describing the development as a milestone in the country’s efforts to strengthen its defense capabilities.
“Our comprehensive efforts to sustainably ensure our country’s peace and security have reached a new milestone today. The state of readiness being built within Ethiopia’s defense forces is endowing the nation with the capability to preemptively deter aggression,” he said.
The Prime Minister stated that, in accordance with an agreement with the Russian government, Ethiopia had taken delivery of the first twelve Su-35 fighter jets. He also indicated that the country was expected to receive four batteries of the S-400 air defense system.
Abiy expressed his gratitude to Russian President Vladimir Putin for facilitating the delivery of the aircraft a year ahead of the agreed schedule.
He said the acquisition would strengthen Ethiopia’s defense capabilities and contribute to its efforts to safeguard national sovereignty, security, and regional stability.
“This historic achievement further strengthens our nation’s sovereignty, and it will serve as a massive capability boost that allows us to confidently continue our journey toward ensuring our collective security and regional stability in the future,” the Prime Minister noted.
Russian Edition of Medemer Launched in Moscow
Alongside discussions on defense and bilateral cooperation, the Russian translation of Medemer, authored by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, was officially launched in Moscow.
The Prime Minister welcomed the publication, describing it as an opportunity to expand the reach of the Medemer philosophy, which he characterized as rooted in Ethiopian indigenous knowledge.
“Today, the Medemer Book was launched in its Russian translation. I am immensely proud to have attended this historic event, which proves that the Medemer philosophy, born from Ethiopian indigenous knowledge, has crossed borders to achieve global impact,” he said.
Abiy noted that the book had previously been translated into English, Chinese, and Arabic, adding that the Russian edition would further broaden its international readership.
He also highlighted the reciprocal exchange of knowledge between Ethiopia and Russia, observing that Russian scholarship had long influenced Ethiopian scholars.
The Prime Minister expressed appreciation to the media professionals and leadership at Russia Today (RT) for their involvement in the project, stating that the Russian edition could help strengthen cultural and intellectual ties between the two countries.
Abiy Holds Bilateral Talks with Putin
During the visit, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed (PhD) held bilateral talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin on ways to strengthen relations between Ethiopia and Russia.
The discussions covered cooperation in nuclear energy, health, and trade, as well as bilateral and multilateral issues of mutual interest.
During the meeting, Abiy presented Putin with a copy of the Russian edition of Medemer, underscoring the cultural and intellectual dimension of the two countries’ engagement.
Putin Hosts Abiy Ahmed and First Lady at Kremlin Dinner
As part of the engagements surrounding the 3rd Russia–Africa Summit in Moscow, Russian President Vladimir Putin received Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and First Lady Zinash Tayachew at a dinner banquet hosted at the Grand Kremlin Palace.
Ethiopia, Russia Nuclear Energy Cooperation
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed (PhD) has emphasized the importance of collective commitment and cooperation to translate the historic decisions of the 3rd Russia-Africa Summit into tangible results.
In a message shared on his official social media platforms, the Prime Minister said Ethiopia remains focused on three key pillars of national development and sustainable prosperity: food security and productivity, reliable energy supply, and skills and knowledge transfer.
He noted that Ethiopia’s diplomatic relations with Russia span more than a century and are rooted in mutual respect and shared benefits.
To strengthen the longstanding ties, Ethiopia is working with Russia to construct a nuclear power plant, which the Prime Minister described as a strategic partnership that would diversify the country’s energy sources, accelerate its development and further strengthen bilateral relations.
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has returned to Ethiopia after concluding his historic and successful participation in the 3rd Russia-Africa Summit held in Moscow, Russia. Beyond diplomatic engagement, this visit concluded as a major platform that practically demonstrated how the enduring and respectful strategic partnership between Ethiopia and Russia can yield tangible fruits.
By Leta Teresa