Donald Trump Declares Somaliland Separate Country from Somalia

President Donald Trump declared that Somalia and Somaliland are two separate countries during an outdoor event in Ohio on October 13. Trump described Somaliland as "a totally different country" and criticized Somalia, stating it lacks a functioning government. He suggested that Somaliland change its name to avoid confusion with Somalia, following through on a previous commitment to study the territory's status upon returning to office.

Thousands of people celebrated the remarks in Hargeisa, the capital of Somaliland, waving United States and Somaliland flags and setting off fireworks. The breakaway region, which operates its own army, currency, and passport, has sought international recognition for years and was recognized by Israel in 2025.

Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi praised Trump and argued that formal recognition would enable the region to cooperate on marine security and counter-terrorism. The Somaliland Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation stated the remarks affirm the region's political reality and inherited borders. While the African Union generally opposes secession, the government in Mogadishu has not yet commented on the declaration.