Russia Warns Israel’s Recognition of Somaliland Escalates Tensions in Horn of Africa
According to the International Desk of Webangah News Agency, Russia has sharply criticized Israel’s decision to recognize Somaliland as an independent state, calling it a violation of Somalia’s territorial integrity. Dina Gilmutdinova, senior advisor to Russia’s UN mission, told the Security Council on Tuesday that Moscow “deeply regrets” the move, which contradicts the sovereignty and unity of the Federal Republic of Somalia.
Gilmutdinova expressed understanding for Somalia’s justified reaction, along with that of the African Union, regional states, and Muslim countries. The Russian diplomat warned that Tel Aviv’s December 26 announcement recognizing the breakaway region could heighten tensions across the Horn of Africa and beyond.
Moscow insists Somalia’s internal disputes should be resolved through inclusive national dialogue without foreign interference. The Russian official added that such decisions complicate Mogadishu’s counterterrorism efforts against al-Shabaab militants.
Somaliland, located northwest of Somalia along the Red Sea, unilaterally declared independence in 1991 but remains unrecognized by the international community. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s cabinet approved the controversial diplomatic move last month.
