African Union Holds Emergency Meeting on Future of AUSSOM Mission in Somalia
Addis Ababa – The African Union has held an emergency meeting to discuss the future of the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia, known as AUSSOM, following the United States government's announcement that it will cut financial support for the UN Support Office in Somalia, which provides essential services for the mission.
The meeting took place at the African Union headquarters in Addis Ababa, attended by military officials and representatives from member states of the AU Peace and Security Council.
AU officials discussed the potential impact of the US decision, particularly on transport, supplies, medical services and the operations of AUSSOM troops in Somalia.
AUSSOM, which has nearly 12,000 soldiers, plays a key role in supporting Somali security forces and the fight against the Al-Shabaab militant group.
Reports indicate that without new funding sources or other international support, the AUSSOM mission could face major challenges that may affect security and stability in Somalia.
So far, the Somali Federal Government and the African Union have not issued an official statement outlining the next steps to ensure the mission continues.
