U.S. Urges Political Deal in Somalia During AFRICOM Chief's Visit to Mogadishu

MOGADISHU, Somalia — Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud met with the commander of the U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM), General Dagvin R.M. Anderson, and senior U.S. diplomats at the Halane compound in Mogadishu on Thursday, with discussions focusing on security cooperation, counterterrorism operations and Somalia's political situation.

According to Somalia's presidency, President Mohamud and General Anderson discussed accelerating the fight against Al-Shabaab, strengthening the Somali National Army and expanding security and defense cooperation between Somalia and the United States.

Sources familiar with the closed-door meeting said the U.S. delegation also underscored the need for an inclusive political agreement among Somali stakeholders, arguing that political consensus would be critical to ensuring long-term security and stability.

The sources said U.S. officials indicated Washington was reviewing its approach to Somalia's security strategy and would prioritize support for initiatives that demonstrate tangible progress. They also reportedly expressed support for military operations in strategic areas, including the "Jubba Corridor" campaign targeting Al-Shabaab in Middle Jubba.

According to the sources, President Mohamud opposed any military operation launched from Jubaland involving neighboring countries' forces, maintaining that such operations would not be acceptable to the federal government.

The sources further said U.S. officials voiced opposition to the use of security forces in political disputes, interference in the affairs of federal member states, and the handling of arms distribution, raising concerns over tensions between the federal government and Puntland.

GAROWE ONLINE