MOAGDISHU (Somaliguardian) – The United States has informed the African Union that it will end its support for United Nations logistical assistance to the African Union peacekeeping mission in Somalia from next year, a decision that officials and diplomats warn could threaten the future of the operation supporting Somalia’s fight against Al-Shabaab.
Wararka Soomaaliya
The policy shift, outlined in two documents reviewed by media, marks a significant change in Washington’s approach to Somalia and comes as the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) continues to rely heavily on U.N. assistance to sustain its operations across the country.
In a diplomatic note dated July 1, the United States told the African Union it would no longer support the U.N. Support Office in Somalia (UNSOS) beyond the end of this year. While Washington said it would not object to the U.N. Security Council renewing AUSSOM’s mandate, it said it would oppose any extension that included continued U.N. logistical or operational support.
The decision places fresh uncertainty over the future of the nearly 12,000-member AUSSOM force, which has helped Somalia’s fragile federal government counter the Al-Qaeda-linked militant group Al-Shabaab. The mission has played a central role in supporting military operations against the insurgency, whose last offensive brought militants close to Mogadishu and which continues to control large areas of southern and central Somalia.
Faahfaahinta
AUSSOM depends extensively on UNSOS for critical logistical support, including food, water, fuel, medical services and troop transportation. Without that assistance, officials say the mission would face major operational challenges.
The change in U.S. policy comes as President Donald Trump’s administration has grown increasingly frustrated with Somalia’s leadership, arguing that persistent political divisions have weakened efforts to defeat Al-Shabaab despite years of international backing.
UNSOS operates with an annual budget of about $500 million, while AUSSOM’s budget last year stood at approximately $190 million. Funding for the mission has become increasingly uncertain in recent years, creating a significant financial shortfall. Washington also blocked a proposal last year that would have shifted three-quarters of AUSSOM’s financing to U.N. assessed contributions.
Saamaynta
The African Union Commission on Thursday informed members of its Peace and Security Council of Washington’s decision, warning that it would have “significant implications for the logistical sustainment, operational posture and financing of the Mission,” according to a letter seen by Somaliguardian.
A spokesperson for the U.S. State Department confirmed that the United States would no longer support UNSOS operations.
“The United States has provided nearly $2 billion in assessed contributions to UNSOS and its predecessor,” the spokesperson said.
Wararka.so waxay kuu soo tebineysaa wararka ugu dambeeyey ee Soomaaliya iyo caalamka. Si aad ula socoto wararkii ugu dambeeyey, booqo boggayaga.
