Sudan army denies Ethiopian claims of backing anti-government coalition
September 27, 2026 (KHARTOUM) – The Sudanese Armed Forces on Sunday denied Ethiopian accusations that it supported an opposition coalition fighting the federal government in Addis Ababa, dismissing the claims as baseless.
On Saturday, Ethiopian military chief Field Marshal Birhanu Jula accused Sudan, Egypt, and other parties of backing groups hostile to Addis Ababa. He said the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) and Eritrea could not mount an effective challenge without external assistance.
The Ethiopian general’s statements came amid renewed escalation across northern Ethiopia, where fighting between federal troops and TPLF-allied forces has intensified, spilling into parts of Afar and Amhara regions.
Speaking to an Ethiopian military media outlet, Jula said external powers were arming and equipping a coalition of armed and political groups seeking to destabilize Ethiopia, attributing current security threats to a broader strategy by what he called “historic enemies” unable to launch direct attacks.
In response, Sudanese army spokesperson Asim Awad Abdelwahab issued a statement rejecting the allegations.
“The Armed Forces confirm their categorical rejection of these claims and consider them baseless accusations,” Abdelwahab said.
He countered that the allegations came despite evidence that the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) received support from Ethiopian territory, including training, logistics, and the launch of strategic and kamikaze drones against Sudan.
Abdelwahab said Sudan adheres to international law and non-interference in neighbouring states’ internal affairs, while remaining committed to protecting its sovereignty and national security. He called on Addis Ababa to rely on dialogue and official diplomatic channels to de-escalate tensions.
Reports indicated that Tigrayan forces recently seized control of three key airports in the region alongside widespread communications and internet blackouts, reviving conditions reminiscent of the 2020–2022 Tigray war.
Sudan’s military government has repeatedly accused Ethiopia of facilitating weapons deliveries and hosting training facilities for the RSF, allegations that Addis Ababa has denied.