The African Union has warned that its mission in Somalia could face serious operational challenges unless urgent international support is secured, following the United States’ decision to cut funding assistance.

The AU said the future of AUSSOM, its successor mission in Somalia, is now under significant uncertainty after nearly two decades of deployment, which began in 2007. The mission has played a central role in supporting Somali security forces, countering Al-Shabaab and helping stabilize key areas across the country.

According to the AU, the mission urgently requires financial, logistical and operational assistance to continue its work. Funding for troop support, military and police logistics, fuel, equipment and other essential supplies remains critical to sustaining operations.

Troop-contributing African countries are unlikely to cover these costs independently, raising concerns over the mission’s long-term viability at a time when Somalia continues to face persistent security threats.

The AU’s operational capacity in Somalia has already declined in recent years following phased troop reductions. In several areas, Somali National Army forces have increasingly been required to operate without direct AU military support.

The warning comes as Somalia and its international partners continue discussions over the future of security assistance and the gradual transfer of responsibilities to Somali forces.