In a bold move to bolster U.S. interests in the Horn of Africa, Senator Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee on Africa and Global Health Policy, has called on President Trump to formally recognize the Republic of Somaliland as an independent state.
In a letter sent 14th August, 2025 today, Cruz highlighted Somaliland’s strategic importance and steadfast partnership with the United States, urging the administration to take decisive action to cement this critical alliance.
“Somaliland has emerged as a vital security and diplomatic partner for the United States,” Cruz wrote, emphasizing its pivotal role in advancing American national security interests. Strategically positioned along the Gulf of Aden, Somaliland sits near one of the world’s busiest maritime corridors.
The nation boasts capable armed forces, actively contributing to regional counterterrorism and anti-piracy operations. Somaliland has also strengthened ties with U.S. allies, hosting a Taiwanese Representative Office in its capital, Hargeisa, expressing support for the Abraham Accords.
Despite its contributions, Somaliland faces growing threats, particularly from the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), which Cruz notes is using economic and diplomatic coercion to punish Somaliland for its pro-Taiwan stance and alignment with U.S. interests. Undeterred, Somaliland remains committed to deepening military cooperation, counterterrorism efforts, and economic partnerships with the United States.
“Recognizing Somaliland as an independent state would unlock its full potential as a partner, delivering significant benefits to American national security,” Cruz urged in the letter. Formal recognition would empower Somaliland to expand its contributions to regional stability and counter adversarial influence in a geopolitically critical region.
The call for recognition marks a significant moment in U.S.-Somaliland relations, spotlighting the nation’s aspirations for sovereignty and its role as a democratic beacon in the Horn of Africa. As the Trump administration considers this historic opportunity, all eyes are on Washington to see whether it will take this bold step to strengthen ties with a key ally.