According to information obtained by Digital, a group of Republican senators is seeking to block U.S. funding for counterterrorism efforts in Somalia until European nations and the African Union (A.U.) increase their financial contributions to peacekeeping operations in the country.

The plan to restrict U.S. funds is part of a new bill set to be introduced by Senators Jim Risch (R-Idaho), Ted Cruz (R-Texas), and Rick Scott (R-Fla.).

The “African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) Funding Restriction Act of 2025” aligns with the President’s administration’s efforts to tighten fiscal oversight both domestically and internationally.

Risch stated that the bill aims to protect U.S. taxpayer money and ensure accountability from the U.N. and A.U. in African peace initiatives.

The legislation also intends to require the U.S. to oppose any U.N. Security Council actions that would facilitate such funding.

Somalia has faced decades of conflict due to attacks from Islamist terrorist groups, including ISIS and al-Shabab. In the past five weeks alone, U.S. Africa Command has conducted four airstrikes against these groups.

Risch acknowledged the Trump Administration’s efforts to combat terrorist organizations in Africa.

However, Risch also stated that U.N. officials are attempting to shift the financial burden of the AUSSOM operation onto the United States.

Risch stated that European partners are trying to avoid their financial obligations to AUSSOM by implementing a funding mechanism that disproportionately affects Americans.

Risch added that this bill will prevent U.S. contributions to AUSSOM under the new funding arrangement until the A.U. and the U.N. demonstrate responsible use of funds and prevent the U.S. from being permanently locked into funding a flawed system.

Risch argued that the Trump Administration prioritizes using American taxpayer dollars to ensure American safety and prosperity and that European allies must share the financial responsibility for global security.

Senators Cruz and Scott, the other sponsors of the bill, also serve on the Senate Foreign Relations committee.

Scott stated that the U.S. will not allow its tax dollars to be misused by the U.N. when partners fail to contribute their fair share, especially for missions that lack responsible and transparent spending. He expressed his support for the AUSSOM Funding Restriction Act to protect American interests and ensure responsible spending of tax dollars.

Digital was given access to the specific aims of the bill:

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