President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud is working to repair Somalia’s regional relationships under his vision of “Somalia at peace with itself and the world.” Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre is advancing the same approach domestically through consultations with political stakeholders. However, relations with Ethiopia have soured. Addis Ababa is uneasy about Somalia’s improved ties with Kenya, especially the resumption of the khat trade, which disrupts business interests tied to Farmaajo‑linked networks. Ethiopia is also concerned by the appointment of Mukhtar Roobow as Minister for Religious Affairs. Following Al‑Shabaab incursions along the border, Ethiopia deployed more troops, tanks, and artillery into Somalia, raising fears of an expansionist strategy. Observers believe Ethiopia is aligning with Farmaajo loyalists, including South West State President Abdiaziz Laftagareen, to destabilize the new government. Meetings between Ethiopian military officials and Somaliland leaders further hint at Addis Ababa’s shifting political posture. These developments risk undermining Somalia’s fragile diplomatic progress, eroding national unity, and reversing efforts to build stable regional relations.