Bosaso (KAAB TV) – In a high-level diplomatic and military visit to Bosaso, U.S. Ambassador to Somalia Larry André, AFRICOM Commander Major General Claude Tudor, and Colonel Benander, Commander of Special Operations Forces in East Africa, met with Puntland President Said Abdullahi Deni to express appreciation for Puntland’s efforts in combatting terrorism and ensuring maritime security.
During the meeting, the American delegation commended Puntland’s significant contributions to the fight against ISIS (Daesh), particularly in the northeastern mountainous regions where terrorist activity has been concentrated.
The U.S. officials emphasized that the threat of terrorism extends beyond Somalia’s borders, posing a danger to regional stability and international security, including that of the United States.
A press release issued by the Puntland Presidency highlighted that discussions during the visit covered a broad range of topics, including national security, political developments, and socio-economic progress across Somalia.
The two sides reaffirmed their mutual commitment to continued cooperation in the fight against extremist groups.
The U.S. delegation also oversaw a joint training session between American Special Operations Forces and Puntland’s elite “Lightning” unit, which is actively engaged in anti-terror operations in the Cal Miskaad mountain range — a known stronghold for militant groups.
This diplomatic engagement comes in the wake of a recent U.S. airstrike in the Sanaag region, which reportedly killed Abdullahi Omar Abdi, a local figure accused of arms trafficking for terrorist organizations.
While the U.S. military stated that the strike targeted a legitimate threat, no detailed evidence has been publicly released. The incident sparked protests in the region, with residents condemning the killing of the traditional leader and demanding transparency.
It remains unclear whether the controversial airstrike was addressed during the meeting between Puntland and U.S. officials. However, the timing of the visit suggests that regional tensions and the need for improved coordination may have been part of the private discussions.
This visit underscores the strategic importance of Puntland in the broader context of U.S. counterterrorism operations in East Africa and reflects a growing partnership between American forces and local Somali administrations.