The United States has once again reiterated its refusal to fund the African Union’s peacekeeping mission in Somalia (formerly ATMIS), which was expected to require $96 million in support. Washington has voiced dissatisfaction with the structure and management of the operation, casting doubt over future international backing.
According to diplomatic sources cited by Africa Intelligence, a recent face-to-face meeting between U.S. officials and African Union representatives ended with Washington reaffirming its decision not to provide financial support. This position mirrors statements made earlier by U.S. diplomats during a meeting in Kampala, where two American representatives made it clear that no funding would be forthcoming unless significant reforms were made to both the operational and financial frameworks of the mission.
In an effort to secure sustainable financial backing, the AU had sent a delegation to Washington seeking at least a partial funding commitment. However, the outcome fell far short of expectations.
Currently, the AU peacekeepers in Somalia—who previously operated under the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS)—are facing a severe financial crisis. The mission reportedly carries a $96 million shortfall in unpaid salaries and operational costs. Several months of soldier pay remain outstanding, raising serious concerns about morale and operational effectiveness on the ground.
