The United States says it will end funding for the U.N. Support Office in Somalia (UNSOS) after 2026, warning that Somalia has failed to make sufficient security reforms despite years of international assistance. The move could significantly affect the future of the African Union mission in Somalia.
MOGADISHU (Somali Report) — The United States has announced it will end its support for the United Nations Support Office in Somalia (UNSOS) after 2026, a decision that could reshape international security assistance in Somalia and raise fresh questions about the future of African Union peace operations.
The announcement came in a diplomatic note sent by the U.S. Mission to the African Union on July 1, the same day Washington congratulated Somalia on its 66th Independence Day and reaffirmed its support for the Somali people in their fight against terrorism and corruption.
In the letter, the United States said it would not oppose renewing the mandate of the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM). However, it made clear it would oppose any United Nations Security Council resolution extending the mission if it continued to rely on logistical or operational support from UNSOS beyond December 31, 2026.
UNSOS provides critical support to AUSSOM, including air transport, engineering, medical services, equipment, and logistics that enable African Union troops to operate across Somalia. Without it, the African Union and troop-contributing countries would need to secure alternative funding and support arrangements.
Washington said the decision reflects frustration over Somalia’s limited progress despite years of international investment.
“Despite more than a decade of international support, Somalia has been unable to sustain progress against al-Shabaab, take ownership of its security functions, or undertake serious security sector reform,” the U.S. statement said.
The United States noted that it has contributed nearly $2 billion to UNSOS and its predecessor since 2007, $1.6 billion in bilateral support to troop-contributing countries, hundreds of millions of dollars to Somali security forces, and billions more in humanitarian and development assistance.
It also blamed persistent political divisions for slowing progress, saying internal rivalries and political infighting continue to undermine efforts to defeat both Al-Shabaab and ISIS.
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The announcement comes at a politically sensitive moment for Somalia, which faces uncertainty over its electoral process, constitutional reforms, and the approaching end of President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s current term.
Despite ending support for UNSOS, Washington stressed that it remains committed to Somalia.
Earlier on July 1, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio congratulated Somalia on its Independence Day, saying the United States stands with the Somali people.
“On behalf of the United States of America, I congratulate the people and Government of the Federal Republic of Somalia on your 66th National Day,” Rubio said.
“The United States stands with the Somali people in their fight against terrorism, corruption, and in their efforts to build a more prosperous future.”
He added that Washington looks forward to working with Somalia to advance peace and strengthen bilateral cooperation.
Analysts say the contrast between the congratulatory message and the decision to end UNSOS funding highlights a shift in U.S. policy—continuing bilateral engagement while urging Somalia and its regional partners to assume greater responsibility for the country’s long-term security.
The African Union and United Nations are expected to discuss AUSSOM’s future mandate later this year before the current authorization expires at the end of 2026.
About the Author
Fatuma Taxadar Yusuf is the Editor-in-Chief of Somali Report. She was the first woman to serve as an editor and media managing director in Somalia’s Puntland State. Previously, she worked with the BBC World Service and other leading media organizations in Somalia. She also serves as Deputy Chairperson of the Somalia Media Council, an independent body that regulates media standards and professional conduct in Somalia.
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