-The United States has expressed concerns that the militant group Al-Shabaab could take advantage of the withdrawal of AU peacekeeping forces from Somalia, which is anticipated to hand over security responsibilities to the Somali national forces.

General Michael Langley, the commander of U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM), has voiced strong apprehensions regarding the current timing of the peacekeeping forces’ departure from Somalia. He highlighted the persistent threat posed by Al-Shabaab.

General Langley mentioned that Al-Shabaab might attempt to seize control of Somalia if the peacekeeping forces leave the country.

He compared Somalia’s current situation to that of Afghanistan, where the Taliban took over after the withdrawal of international peacekeeping forces.

The general also emphasized that Al-Shabaab could be defeated if the Somali people supported their national army and government. He noted that Al-Shabaab has already lost the trust of the Somali population.

This statement from the U.S. comes as the Somali government is requesting the withdrawal of peacekeeping forces and the transfer of security responsibilities to the Somali National Army.