Diplomatic sources have confirmed that high-level discussions took place last Thursday between Eritrean and U.S. officials at the Eritrean Embassy in Washington, indicating a possible thaw in the long-challenged relationship between the two nations.
The U.S. delegation included senior State Department officials: Deputy Assistant Secretary Vincent Spera, Ms. Holly Mackey, and Mr. Jonathan (full name not disclosed). They were received by Berhane Solomon, Eritrea’s Chargé d’Affaires in Washington.
Described as “candid and constructive,” the meeting reportedly focused on both bilateral and regional matters, including peace, security, and cooperation in the Horn of Africa. According to Eritrean-affiliated news outlet Tesfa News, the talks emphasized mutual respect and advancing regional peace.
Eritrea, which has long been under U.S. sanctions—particularly following the 2021 conflict in Ethiopia’s Tigray region—has expressed a willingness to engage in “constructive dialogue” with Washington. During the meeting, Eritrean representatives reportedly underscored the importance of sovereignty, territorial integrity, and the need for a balanced approach to regional diplomacy.
In addition to bilateral relations, the conversation also touched on sensitive developments in the Horn, including Eritrea’s growing alignment with Egypt and Somalia, and its evolving relationship with factions of Ethiopia’s Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF). The emerging alliance known as “Tsemdo” between Eritrea and the Debretsion-led TPLF faction was reportedly discussed.
Tensions between Ethiopia and Eritrea have escalated over the past two years, with both countries accused of preparing for potential conflict. Although speculation of war continues to circulate, Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed recently stated in parliament that “Ethiopia will not fire the first bullet.”
While the U.S. State Department has not issued an official statement regarding the meeting, the dialogue comes amid long-standing American concern over rising instability across the Horn of Africa.
The latest exchange may signal the beginning of renewed engagement between Eritrea and the U.S., following years of strained relations marked by sanctions, diplomatic isolation, and regional rivalry.