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The United States (US) has said it will stop providing logistical support to the United Nations (UN) for the African Union (AU) peacekeeping mission in Somalia from next year, a move that could jeopardise one of Africa’s largest and longest-running security operations.
According to Reuters, in a diplomatic note to the African Union, the US has vowed to block any use of UN funds for the AU Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM).
The mission’s budget last year was $190 million, but financing has become increasingly difficult, resulting in a significant funding shortfall.
The US is one of the largest supporters of the U.N. Support Office in Somalia (UNSOS), whose total budget is projected to top $500 million this year.
The African Union force includes troops from Uganda, Kenya, Ethiopia and other countries.
It has been supporting Somalia’s federal government in its fight against militants since 2009.
It relies heavily on U.N. support to pay for logistics, medical services, and troop transportation.
The African Union has since informed members of its Peace and Security Council of Washington’s decision, warning that it has significant implications for the mission’s future.
US President Donald Trump has become increasingly critical of Somalia, blaming its government for Somali migration to the United States and imposing a travel ban on the country.
