EXCLUSIVE: Somalia’s Leader Urges Trump to Join Forces in Battling Global Terrorism
Recently, while seated in a sun-dappled room in Mogadishu, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of Somalia spoke with a quiet intensity that comes from years spent grappling with the formidable al-Shabab insurgency. At 69, Mohamud stands at the helm during a turbulent period, his tenure marked by a relentless fight against one of the world’s most dangerous terror groups. The question on everyone’s mind: how can the United States, a distant though powerful ally, continue to play a crucial role in this struggle?
Mohamud’s reflections were shared during an insightful interview at the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting in Davos, Switzerland. The discourse, lush with anecdotes and strategic concerns, provided a glimpse into the rocky yet resilient relationship between Somalia and the United States — a relationship whose dynamics bear enough historical intrigue to require careful nurturing amidst changing political landscapes.
Lally Weymouth: President Mohamud, how do you envision the relationship between your country and the new Trump administration?
Hassan Sheikh Mohamud: Our longstanding relationship with the United States has always been anchored in mutual respect and shared goals. Yet, as new leaders take charge, uncertainties naturally arise. While some within President Trump’s circle might be pushing for the recognition of North Western State of Somalia as an independent state, Somalia remains firm on its stance: a unified nation, as it has been since 1960. Once divided by colonial rule, a British protectorate in the north and an Italian colony in the south, we united to form the Somali Republic. The civil war in 1991 saw North Western State of Somalia’s unilateral declaration of independence, but it remains unrecognized internationally.
The debate surrounding North Western State of Somalia is not just an internal affair. It has potential to ripple across Africa, possibly encouraging secessionist movements. Is shifting decades-old borders worth the risk of wider destabilization?
Lally Weymouth: As the fight against al-Shabab continues, how has your strategy evolved?
President Mohamud musters a thoughtful pause. “For 18 years, we’ve tackled al-Shabab on multiple fronts — through military operations, economic sanctions, and strategic countermeasures. Despite their defeat not being absolute, our forces have made significant inroads, reclaiming vast territories previously dominated by them.” Yet the battle is arduous, with fatigue setting in after years of continuous warfare.
Can you sense the determination beneath the fatigue? With the US as a key ally, providing intelligence, logistics, and sometimes aerial support, Somalia’s forces have made discernible progress. Despite challenges, an invincible spirit permeates through Mohamud’s words. “American troops aren’t on our ground,” he clarifies, “but their support is indispensable to our operations.”
Lally Weymouth: What justifies the American involvement in Somalia’s fight against terrorism?
As Mohamud candidly explains, the stakes are global. Al-Shabab’s ties with al-Qaeda underline a pernicious agenda that doesn’t stop at Somalia’s borders. Historically, they have targeted Europe and America, leaving trails of destruction and fear. Preventing these terrorists from organizing attacks is a collective responsibility. Isn’t it worth investing in peace, to plaster potential threats before they cross continents?
In 2023, the United States allocated around $1 billion to Somalia for military and humanitarian purposes. But uncertainty looms. What would happen if President Trump, known for his non-interventionist leanings, decides to withdraw American advisers critical to training Somalia’s elite forces?
“We urge President Trump not to retract these vital supports,” Mohamud urges. “Instead, we request more advisors to amplify our efforts against al-Shabab.” His appeal carries the weight of a nation’s hope for the eradication of terrorism within its lands.
Lally Weymouth: Can you continue this progress if US support dwindles?
“Fighting a terrorist group is distinct from inter-country warfare,” he responds poignantly. “We need allies to subdue an adversary without clear international affiliations. President Trump is seen as a man of his word… Will he consider Somalia’s plight?”
The conversation shifts to impressionable narratives about Somalia, shaped by Hollywood portrayals like “Black Hawk Down” and “Captain Phillips,” which embed deep-seated misconceptions. Mohamud wishes to convey a different image — one of potential and partnership.
Lally Weymouth: Finally, what legacy do you seek to leave?
“A Somalia liberated from al-Shabab, thriving democratically, and a steadfast ally of the United States,” he declares, encapsulating a vision both ambitious and deeply personal.
The interview closes, but Mohamud’s vision lingers. The pathway to a stable Somalia is fraught with challenges, yet shaped by the enduring image of hope and persistence.
Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times International – Monitoring
