The calm is deceptive. A stubbled crater attests to a recent artillery barrage, but with its bustling streets and shops, the highland Ethiopian city of Mekelle has an air of relative peace.

Fear and hostility simmer as Ethiopia’s military keeps hold on Tigray

The Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF), which is refusing to surrender its rule of the northern region, said its forces were digging trenches and standing firm.

Ethiopia military: We will use tanks, artillery to capture Mekelle

Two days of protests have left at least 81 people dead in Ethiopia, a police chief said Wednesday, after the murder of a popular singer from the country's largest ethnic group stoked tensions that threaten to derail the country's democratic transition.

Ethiopia protests: 81 killed in violence after death of singer; military deployed

Samora had served in Ethiopia's military for four decades

Ethiopia's prime minister replaces commanders in security reshuffle