According to Shabelle Media Network United States has formally opposed a United Nations initiative to finance the African Union’s new mission in Somalia, known as AUSSOM, raising concerns about the future of efforts to stabilize the country and combat al-Shabaab insurgents.
AUSSOM, which began operations in January 2025, aims to support Somalia’s security forces and consolidate peace in areas liberated from militants. The mission is set to replace the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS), which is gradually winding down its operations.
Ahead of a key U.N. Security Council vote on May 15, Washington declared its opposition to a proposed hybrid funding mechanism outlined in Resolution 2719. The plan had sought to provide predictable, long-term U.N. financing for African-led peace operations in Somalia.
A U.S. State Department spokesperson stated that Somalia is not the appropriate context to test the new joint financing model, which is designed to share the burden between the United Nations and regional actors.
The move contrasts with U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres’ appeal to member states for reliable funding. In a report to the Security Council dated April 10, Guterres emphasized that financial uncertainty threatens the viability of the new mission and could undermine progress made in recent years.
Without guaranteed support, AUSSOM’s ability to contain al-Shabaab and stabilize critical regions in Somalia remains at risk, prompting wider regional concern over the implications of the U.S. position.