WASHINGTON — The United States has proposed a 12-month transitional period for the gradual reduction of operations by the United Nations Support Office in Somalia (UNSOS), beginning after the current authorization for the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) expires on December 31, 2026.
Under the proposal, UNSOS would gradually scale back its activities during the transitional period before ultimately closing its operations in Somalia.
The proposal is not yet final and remains part of ongoing discussions over the future of international logistical support for African Union forces and Somali security institutions.
The Somali government, the African Union and other stakeholders are seeking a longer transition period of between 18 and 24 months. They argue that additional time would allow for a more gradual transfer of responsibilities, the development of alternative logistical arrangements and further strengthening of Somalia’s security institutions.
The discussions come as UNSOS has already begun adjusting some of its operations and support arrangements following the transition from the former African Union Mission in Somalia to AUSSOM.
A key issue in the negotiations is how logistical and operational support currently provided through the UN system would be maintained after the end of the transitional period, including support for transportation, medical services, infrastructure and other essential requirements.
The parties are also discussing the management of UNSOS resources and assets during the transition, as well as how the UN budget allocated for the 2026–2027 financial period would be utilized.
The future of international logistical support for AUSSOM remains under discussion among the United States, the United Nations, the African Union, the Somali government and other stakeholders, with no final agreement yet announced.
The outcome of the negotiations could have significant implications for the African Union mission and Somalia’s efforts to gradually assume greater responsibility for national security and the logistical requirements of its security forces.
