The Turkish Ministry of Defense has issued a statement denying reports that it plans to deploy 15,000 additional troops to Somalia. According to the ministry, the claims are unfounded and do not reflect reality. The statement was made during the ministry's weekly press conference, which was held on a ship in Istanbul's naval base. The conference was attended by Admiral Zeki Aktürk, the ministry's spokesperson.
The denial comes after reports emerged suggesting that Turkey had agreed to deploy 15,000 troops to Somalia at the request of the Somali government. The reports claimed that the troops would be deployed to cities including Baraawe, Baydhabo, and Mogadishu by January 2027. However, there has been no official confirmation from either the Turkish or Somali governments regarding the deployment of such a large number of troops.
The reports of a potential Turkish deployment to Somalia come at a time of changing dynamics in the country's security landscape. Uganda has recently begun withdrawing its troops from Somalia, with the country's military announcing that its troops would be withdrawn by the end of 2027. The withdrawal has raised concerns about the future of Somalia's security and the role that bilateral defense agreements with other countries will play.
Turkey has a significant military presence in Somalia, with a base in Mogadishu known as TURKSOM. The base, which was established in 2017, serves as a major training facility for Somali security forces. Turkish forces have been providing training, equipment, and logistical support to Somali forces as part of a broader effort to help the country build its security capabilities.
The Turkish Ministry of Defense has emphasized that its military cooperation with Somalia continues as normal. The ministry has confirmed that Turkish forces are still actively engaged in training and supporting Somali security forces. This cooperation is part of a 10-year framework agreement on defense and economic cooperation that was signed by Turkey and Somalia in February 2024.
The agreement focuses on maritime security and cooperation in the fight against terrorism, piracy, and illegal fishing. As part of this cooperation, Turkey has provided Somalia with T129 attack helicopters and other military equipment. The two countries have also been working together on a range of other security issues, including counter-terrorism and border security.
Recently, the Turkish Ministry of Defense announced that a group of Somali soldiers had completed a special forces training program in Turkey. The soldiers completed a basic training program at the 8th Commando Training Brigade in Manisa, western Turkey. The graduation ceremony was attended by Turkish and Somali officials, highlighting the ongoing commitment of both countries to strengthening Somalia's military capabilities.
Key points
- Turkey denies plans to deploy 15,000 troops to Somalia, saying reports are unfounded.
