The US has denied talks to recognise Somaliland, reaffirming support for Somalia’s territorial integrity amid rising speculation.
On 29 August 2025, the U.S. State Department firmly dismissed speculation that Washington is engaged in negotiations to recognize Somaliland as an independent state.
In a statement, the department clarified that no active discussions are taking place with Somaliland officials regarding formal recognition. Instead, the U.S. reiterated its longstanding policy of supporting Somalia’s territorial integrity, aligning with the broader international consensus.
This announcement comes as Somaliland intensifies its diplomatic push for recognition, highlighting its relative stability compared to Somalia. Analysts note that while the region has maintained self-governance since 1991, most governments—including the U.S.—have avoided recognition to preserve fragile regional dynamics.
In October 2024 Israel announced plans to establish a military base in Somaliland, amid regional security concerns.
For Somaliland, the clarification represents a setback in its quest for international legitimacy, underscoring the challenges of breaking through diplomatic resistance despite growing global economic and security interests in the Horn of Africa.