Mogadishu (KAAB TV) – The U.S.-trained Danab Special Forces in Somalia are facing severe challenges following a reduction in this year’s food and fuel supplies, along with the suspension of a $400 monthly supplemental salary for each soldier in February.
A report published by The Washington Post indicates that these cutbacks have led to the departure of several Danab soldiers and the withdrawal of foreign trainers who had been supporting them on the ground.
Criticism has also been directed at the Trump administration’s strategy regarding the fight against the extremist group Al-Shabaab. Analysts have raised concerns about Washington’s apparent deprioritization of the group, despite its continued threat to regional stability. The Somali government, plagued by corruption, is accused of lacking the credibility and capability to independently lead the fight.
“The Trump administration does not seem to view Al-Shabaab as a direct threat to U.S. interests,” said Matt Bryden, founder of the Nairobi-based think tank Sahan Research. “However, if Al-Shabaab continues to gain ground, it could significantly impact U.S. policy in both Africa and the Middle East.”
Simultaneously, the U.S. has expressed concern over Somalia’s pivot away from Western allies, as Mogadishu strengthens ties with Turkey to support its security efforts. This growing relationship has resulted in new military and economic agreements, including oil exploration deals, the delivery of drones, and the recent deployment of hundreds of Turkish soldiers.
Turkey is now deeply embedded in Somalia’s security landscape, having trained two battalions totaling up to 6,000 Somali troops. Turkish drones have reportedly been used to strike key Al-Shabaab targets, demonstrating Ankara’s increasing role in the region’s counterterrorism operations.
Observers warn that a diminishing U.S. presence in Somalia could seriously undermine ongoing efforts to combat Al-Shabaab, widely regarded as one of the most dangerous extremist threats in East Africa.