WASHINGTON – The United States has reiterated that its policy on Somalia’s territorial integrity remains unchanged, following questions about whether recent remarks by President Donald Trump describing Somaliland as “a completely different country from Somalia” could signal a shift toward recognizing Somaliland as an independent state.
During an interview, US Ambassador Ervin, based in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, was asked whether Trump’s remarks could be interpreted as a positive indication that Washington might consider recognizing Somaliland.
In response, the ambassador stated that there had been no change in US policy regarding the issue.
“There has been no change in US policy with regard to the question you raised,” the ambassador said.
He also expressed concern about the spread of misinformation on social media, warning that misleading reports and deliberate attempts to confuse the public had increased in recent weeks.
“We see a lot of misinformation on social media, and over the past few weeks, there has been an increase in deliberate efforts to mislead and confuse people,” he said.
The ambassador described the situation as potentially dangerous, warning that misinformation could fuel tensions and urging the public to exercise caution when evaluating information.
“I consider this very dangerous because it could provoke tensions. Therefore, I would encourage everyone to check their sources and examine the intentions behind the information two or three times before drawing conclusions,” he added.
The remarks reaffirm Washington’s stated position that its policy on Somalia’s territorial integrity has not changed, despite renewed public discussion about Somaliland’s long-standing pursuit of international recognition.
Somaliland declared independence from Somalia in 1991 and has operated with its own governing institutions, but it has continued to seek broader international recognition as a sovereign state.
