Ethiopic strength Al-Shabaab's ambush; A massive response is expected

January 19, 2019 (Ezega.com) – Ethiopian national armed forces were ambushed by al-Shabaab forces in Somalia this week, according to the AP report. Ethiopia is preparing for a massive offensive in return.

Ethiopian forces were in peacekeeping convoy in Somalia when al-Shabaab attack took place. According to reports, the ambush occurred when the Ethiopian convoy traveled from Burhakaba to Baidoa, south-west Somalia.

Al-Shabaab claimed that several Ethiopian troops were killed in the attack. Al-Shabaab has also claimed responsibility for the deadly assault of the hotel in Nairobi and the deadly attacks on forces within Somalia.

The Ministry of Defense confirmed that Al Shabaab attacked a convoy carrying Ethiopian soldiers who were on a peacekeeping mission to Somalia, according to the Reporter.

The ministry said that the Ethiopian defense force has effectively defended itself and al-Shabaad has weakened accordingly.

Ethiopian forces are preparing for a "massive offensive" in response, according to the report.

Ethiopia contributes with troops to a multinational peacekeeping mission of the African Union. He also has troops in Somalia independently under the command of the Ethiopian army.

However, Ethiopia drastically reduced its military presence in Somalia compared to that of ten years ago.

Al-Shabaab, which was formed more than a decade ago, has been severely weakened and has withdrawn from many places it once held in the face of prolonged attacks by African Union peacekeepers.

Eritrea was believed to be an early supporter of Al-Shabaab. Eritrea is now at peace with the central government in Somalia.