On Friday, the UN Security Council approved a resolution to launch the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), set to replace the current African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) once its mandate expires on December 31. The resolution, led by the UK, passed with 14 votes in favor and the US abstaining.
AUSSOM will deploy up to 12,626 personnel, including 1,040 police officers, to assist Somalia until June 2025, focusing on combatting Al-Shabaab, bolstering stabilization efforts, and facilitating humanitarian aid delivery. Ambassador James Kariuki of the UK emphasized the resolution’s strong commitment to supporting Somalia.
The session also saw participation from Somalia and Ethiopia, who have had tensions over a deal involving the port of Berbera. However, a breakthrough occurred with the Ankara Declaration, brokered by Turkey, which helped ease relations between the two nations by reaffirming their respect for each other’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
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