MOGADISHU (Kaab TV) – The United States government has reportedly recalled nearly 30 senior diplomats, including the U.S. Ambassador to Somalia, as part of a broader review and restructuring of U.S. foreign policy aimed at aligning it with the “America First” agenda.
According to officials cited within the U.S. State Department, ambassadors serving in at least 29 countries were informed last week that their assignments are expected to end in January. All of the affected diplomats reportedly assumed their posts during the administration of former President Joe Biden.
Africa is said to be the most affected region, with ambassadors recalled from 13 countries, including Somalia, Nigeria, Niger, Rwanda, Senegal, Uganda, and others.
The U.S. State Department has defended the move, stating that ambassadors serve as personal representatives of the president, and that the president has the authority to appoint individuals who fully support and reflect his foreign policy priorities.
Although the recalled ambassadors are not being dismissed from the U.S. Foreign Service entirely, they have reportedly been given the option to return to Washington, where they may be reassigned to other roles if they choose.
The decision has raised concern among some U.S. officials and organizations representing career diplomats, who have warned that rapid and large-scale changes of this nature could negatively affect U.S. relations with the affected countries, including Somalia.