Ethiopians criticize US at pro-government rally
Ethiopian pro-government demonstrators held a massive rally on Sunday (May 30) denouncing the United States for imposing restrictions on aid
over the East African nation's conflict with neighbouring Tigray.
More than 10,000 people attended the rally, which was organized by the Ministry of Youth.
They carried banners written in English, Arabic, and Amharic,
with slogans like "USA show us your neutrality," and "Ethiopia doesn't need a caretaker.”
The demonstration was larger than typical pro-government rallies, and public criticism of the U.S. is rare.
A week ago, the U.S. imposed restrictions on economic and security assistance to Ethiopia over the conflict.
Washington also said it would bar current or former Ethiopian or Eritrean officials it deems responsible for the crisis.
Ethiopia is facing increasing international pressure over the conflict in Tigray, where it and neighbouring Eritrea sent troops last year to oust regional authorities.
